Holiday Stress Reduction Guide

• Don’t raise your expectations too high for the holidays.
• Be realistic about what you can accomplish. Avoid scheduling too many extra activities and obligations.
• Practice these stress control habits: exercise regularly, get enough sleep, schedule some time each day for yourself to relax and plan ahead.
• Keep traditions and family gatherings simple. Allow flexibility in family gatherings.
• Shop with a spending plan and gift ideas for each person. Stick to the spending limits you’ve set.
• Share chores with other family members. Encourage children to keep up with their household chores and responsibilities.
• Stepfamilies will want to discuss holiday schedules and traditions ahead of time. This way, the child and all family members can plan ahead and know what to expect.
• Laugh! Look for ways to keep humor in your life. It’s good for you!