Handling Holiday Stress

The holiday season is here, and it can be a wonderful time. However, for many, this time of year may also be very stressful. And there are lots of triggers for this.

People who have lost someone during the holidays may have an especially hard time. Wheaton Franciscan Health Care and many other community support groups recognize this and have special sessions for people who have lost someone this time of year. If difficult feelings persist or are overwhelming, then reach out and ask for help. There is no shame in asking for help.  Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare offers a support group designed specifically to assist those who are grieving during the holidays. Starting in November, the group will meet on select Thursdays at: Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare–Wauwatosa 201 N. Mayfair Road, 5th Floor Conference Room Wauwatosa, WI 53226 6:30 pm to 8:45 p.m. Learn more.

Some people are just overwhelmed trying to do too much. Holiday stress in small doses can be good and help us keep busy through the dark days of winter but we should know our limitations. We still need to get a good night’s sleep, eat right, exercise, and, as the ancient philosophers said, keep all things in moderation.

If you have a new baby in the family, don’t go crazy buying presents. Hugs and tender loving care are the best. One and two-year-olds enjoy the packaging and playing with wrapping paper and boxes as much as the gifts. Try to give gifts to children that are age appropriate. If you want to know more about a product you can always check out some consumer websites or, if needed, look on www.recalls.gov.  

Here are some key holiday safety items to keep your holidays safe and avoid an an unexpected emergency room visit:

• Keep fragile decorations out of the reach of toddlers.
• Watch family pets and children with wires and all electric decorations and while cooking and baking.
• Candles and fireplaces may also be a danger.
• People of all ages should be careful with ladders and never go up a ladder without someone else in the house knowing what they are doing.
• Don’t give live animals (many pet stores will support this and give gift certificates for a possible animal in the future).
• Avoid giving food products to people who may have dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Some people are allergic to evergreens and live plants.

Seniors will appreciate the gift of time and perhaps homemade gift certificates for future snow shoveling, house cleaning, or assistance with errands. Families may appreciate a homemade coupon for babysitting or household chores. Many religious and service organizations would be happy to have a gift of volunteering. Helping someone else can often help us deal with our own problems with a new perspective.

Best wishes for a happy, healthy new year!

Find more helpful, timely health care information on the Wheaton Franciscan Medical Group blog.