In a poll conducted by the American Psychological Association, around 70% of respondents said they are stressed by  either a lack of time or lack of money, and  many reported they also feel stressed by the pressure to give or get gifts. Time, money and gifts are not the only reasons that people have challenges during the holidays, though. Other factors include family dynamics, broken relationships, travel and loss.

If you get anxious anticipating the holidays, you’re not alone. But there are some strategies and planning that will help you better manage stress so you can get through the holidays in a better frame of mind. Here are some tips for keeping your December a little brighter:

• Stay with your routine. While you may be taking some time off work, maintain some normal parts of your day to provide structure and predictability. Go to bed at your usual time, for instance, and keep your exercise routine if you have one.
• Think moderation. Eating and drinking too much is a well-known activity during the holiday season, but it can lead to guilt and keep you from feeling your best both emotionally and physically. When you gather with friends or family, limit yourself to a drink or two and consider eating at home before you go out to avoid overindulging in sweets and high-calorie party foods.
• Ask for help. If you’re the go-to for wrapping, shopping, cooking, decorating, and sending out holiday cards in your home — or if you just get into a mental funk — reach out and ask others for help to avoid getting overwhelmed and exhausted. It will let others know how you’re feeling and hopefully ease your burden.
• Set realistic expectations. Acknowledge the specific things that create stress for you over the holidays and choose the things that are feasible. Maybe you’ll limit time with certain family members or draw names for gift exchanges rather than trying to buy for everyone. Once you identify what overwhelms you, it can be easier to decide how to be more realistic and manage any expectations — of yourself and others.
• Squeeze in some activity. While the holidays can be hectic, take the time to move and breathe a bit since it can boost your spirits and give you a much-needed break. Take a short walk, do some stretching or try  some deep breathing and meditation exercises at home or in your car. Even a few small spurts of activity can help you stay relaxed and keep things in perspective.  

If you need help managing the stress of the holidays or just need some emotional support, Transocean offers a number of resources. Visit the Healthy Mind area on the My Journey page of YourTransoceanBenefits.com to explore the resources available to you to learn more.

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