Six Strategies for Avoiding Seasonal Stress

Discovery Behavioral Health therapist George Livengood offers timely tips for successfully navigating the holidays

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Nov 19, 2021, 10:51 ET

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The holidays are here — a time of joy, love and laughter! However, for many this is a time of stress, loneliness and sadness. Obligations to friends and family, excessive demands on your time, financial strains and, of course, the pandemic can all feel overwhelming.

Not to despair — there are tried-and-true coping mechanisms developed by the mental health profession for embracing the season while still minimizing stress, according to George Livengood, licensed marriage and family therapist and vice president of Discovery Mood & Anxiety program, a division of Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc.

"You can't change the holidays, but you can learn how to successfully cope with them. It's a matter of being mindful of the difference between fun and over-indulgence, and spontaneity and setting reasonable boundaries," says Livengood.

Here are his six timely tips to navigate the holidays and protect your mental health.

Learn to say no. There can be many opportunities to celebrate, and it can be exhausting. You don’t have to feel pressured to go to every event. Enjoy those that are important to you; or, stay home and put your feet up. You decide.
For some, there may not seem like there are any invitations and it can feel very lonely. Go online. I think you will be surprised how many organizations plan activities for the community to celebrate the holidays. If you are open to it, maybe you can make a new friend.
Anticipate discomfort and create a plan. For those who struggle with alcohol or substance use, the holidays are filled with toasts to good health and cheer. Speak to the host about non-alcoholic options or bring your own. If it is traditional to bring a bottle of champagne, why not opt for sparkling?
Don’t argue politics with your uncle (or anyone). You are not going to change anyone’s mind and it could ruin your holiday cheer. Instead, set a boundary, excuse yourself if necessary and talk to someone else about the best holiday movies — 'Christmas Vacation' and ‘Elf,’ according to most of my family members.
This year many families will be missing loved ones. After almost two years of masks and social distancing, the pandemic has taught us how important human connection is to maintain our spirit and sanity. Don't wait for another day. Hug those close to you and take the opportunity to tell them how you feel.
Lastly, volunteer. Holidays are a time of giving, but it doesn't have to be about money. Make someone's holiday by showing up at a food bank, shelter, hospital, retirement community or animal shelter. You are the best gift of all.

Need additional mental health support during the holidays? Discovery offers free, online support groups for individuals, family members and healthcare professionals: https://discoverymood.com/groups.

NOTE TO PRESS: Licensed therapist George Livengood is available for additional comment.

About Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc.

Everyone deserves a happy, rewarding life. That's why Discovery Behavioral Health has made evidence-based, outcome-driven healthcare accessible and affordable since its inception. With a full continuum of care – detoxification, medical residences, residential treatment centers, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, psychiatric, neurocenters and telehealth services, we can offer the right care at the right time for adults or teens struggling with mental health, substance misuse or eating disorders. With a portfolio of more than 130 treatment centers including service lines in successful operation since 1985, we are a preferred and trusted provider with most insurance companies who value our clinical rigor and remarkable results. When treatment is complete, our patients become part of Discovery's growing family of Alumni, connected through free aftercare programs, support groups, activities and a caring community – for life. Because when quality behavioral healthcare is within reach, so is happiness. More: https://discoverybehavioralhealth.com

Press Contact:
Greg Ptacek
Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc.
323-841-8002 | mobile
[email protected]

SOURCE Discovery Behavioral Health