The holidays will likely feel different this year as we continue to live through a worldwide pandemic — and that may lead to increased stress and anxiety. Here are some tips to help you manage holiday stress, even during this most unusual of seasons.
As 2020 comes to an end with the world still in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the holiday season will likely feel different. While holiday preparations and celebrations can often bring about both joy and anxiety, it's especially important to anticipate and manage this year's added stressors.
The activities that often define people's time outside of work during the holiday season each year — planning, shopping, decorating, cooking, hosting — are looked forward to by some, dreaded by others, and seen as an inevitable mix of emotions by many. With the pandemic affecting plans everywhere, how will you adapt so that you can enjoy the season without excessive stress affecting your physical and mental health?
The Mayo Clinic has put together some helpful tips on managing stress in this most unusual of holiday seasons. Here are a few for you to try out.
Be realistic. In many ways, the holidays this year won't look like previous years. Be open to creating new traditions and finding new ways to celebrate together. Share pictures, emails, or videos of your holiday with relatives outside your home or celebrate together virtually on a video call.
Stick to a budget. Finances may be tighter this year for many people, but those limitations can actually spark positive changes to your typical gift-giving traditions. Consider homemade gifts, donations to charity in a loved one's name, or a family gift exchange with spending limits.
Reach out. If you're feeling stressed out as the holidays approach, share your feelings with a friend or family member. Community, religious, or social organizations may offer online support groups, one-to-one chat time, or virtual events to help you stay connected. Volunteering can also lift your spirits and change your focus.
Don't abandon healthy habits. Staying on course with healthy living, even during busy times, is one way to stave off added stress. Identify what trade-offs you can make to ensure you have enough time for the following:
Take a breather. Mindfulness moments can be just that — moments, not hours. What helps you clear your mind and restore your inner calm? Whether you listen to soothing music, read a book, take a walk, or just stop and do nothing but breathe, take a little time each day to power down so you have renewed energy for what's ahead.
Seek professional help if you need it. Stress can have debilitating effects on our minds and bodies if we don't address it. If you have feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, or hopelessness that last for a while, or if find yourself facing lingering physical issues, sleep problems, or inability to complete routine chores, it's best to speak with your doctor or a mental health professional.
This is where the Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) can help.
Support when you need it most
If you have access to the EAP as part of the Medical Plan,* you have 24/7 unlimited access to licensed clinicians by calling 866-640-2772 or logging into the Cigna website and scheduling a call.
You can also receive up to six free, private counseling sessions per issue in person (following current COVID-19 safety protocols) or by phone, tablet, or home computer. These confidential services are available at no cost to you, eligible family members, and anyone living in your household.
Get a more detailed look at how to access your EAP services and resources — then make a plan for reducing stress so that you can be in the moment and joyful during the holiday season.
*If you are enrolled in Triple-S or GeoBlue, you have EAP benefits under your plan, but coverage details may differ. Consult your plan's provisions for details. The EAP is not available to those enrolled in the Medicare Supplement Plan.
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