How to Handle Holiday Anxiety with Post Concussion Syndrome
This time of year can be very overwhelming for everyone. Trying to handle the emotions and obligations that the holiday season brings on can be challenging for anyone. Experiencing the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome can make this even more of an adjustment. I may love the holidays, but there are many things that I have to remember to prevent symptoms from increasing. For example, I often need a nap if I spend a lot of time with my very loud family and some space to calm my brain. The holidays are noisy, bright, busy, and can cause emotions to run high for various reasons.
Be Realistic
There are so many things to do during the holiday season; gift shopping (get some tips for shopping with a sensitive brain here), baking, extra cleaning, cooking, entertaining, and so much more. So be honest with yourself you can't do everything, and that's okay. Try to choose what's most important to you.
Plan
You may have a routine that works for you now, so make sure not to abandon your routine and remember the triggers you have learned. Plan to keep yourself from being overwhelmed, particularly if you have a lot to get done. Never put too much in your day and allow time for breaks. Alcohol is often around during this time of year. Don't feel pressured to drink if you know drinking right now may not be a good idea, either emotionally or physically.
It's family dinner; the house is loud, everyone's talking and laughing, but your head starts hurting. What do you do? How do you ask to be excused without being rude? How do you not look lazy for taking a nap so you can spend the day with everyone?
First! Don't be hard on yourself; it is not your fault. Make sure to challenge your negative thoughts. If you miss dinner but had breakfast with everyone, is it really so bad?
"I'm just too broken to do this " correct with "I am healing and that's okay"
Second! Reach out for help and try to explain the best you can. I often need a nap to last through a hectic day, and if that's what you need to try explaining, it will allow you to truly enjoy the day.
Third! Say "NO" its okay to say no to anyone and everyone; you have the right to put yourself first. Specifically, this year with Covid 19, you may want to limit your exposure to others, and that's okay!
Remember What You're Going Through is Invisible
Post-concussion syndrome is invisible. Remember to be understanding of your family as well (read more on family here). Be patient with them when explaining that maybe you need a break. They may not notice how much you are fighting on the inside to be there with everyone. Saying this, you also want to be honest with your friends and family to the best of your ability. They may want to help but don't know how and you being open will help encourage a better relationship. Emotions run high during the holiday season, be sure to check in with yourself and make sure that you are doing what you need to be okay.
Take Alone Time or Not
Stress management is essential at this time of year! If you need alone time to sleep, read, walk, binge your favourite show or do nothing, then take the time to do so! Don't allow yourself to feel guilty for missing out. Your family will be thankful for it in the end because it will enable you to enjoy the holiday more. If alone time may stress you out because emotions are running high, plan your days the best you can to do things with friends and family.
Budget
To add to stress management, remember to stick to a budget not to create extra stress. It's very common for financial situations to change after a head injury, so don't let the holiday season be a reason to suffer more. Even if your financial situation is good or has not changed, a budget allows the holidays to be a little less stressful.
Let's be Honest
The holidays are a wonderful tough time of year, so be realistic, plan ahead, manage your stress, and do the best you can! Remember to reach out if you are struggling and follow us on social media to keep updated.
One day at a time,
Bella
