The holiday season brings with it decorating, shopping, cooking and gatherings, making the last few weeks of the year filled with activity.

For many, this time of year marks the start of visiting their favorite people and returning to their favorite traditions. For others, however, it can mean stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.

Managing stress during the holidays is difficult, but you can make choices to make the season lighter and less complicated, according to Ted Futris, a University of Georgia cooperative extension specialist and professor of human development and family sciences. at the College of Families. and consumer sciences.

Handle Conflict Carefully

During the holidays, conflicts may arise with people you haven’t seen in a while. Rather than letting these conflicts spiral out of control, it is important to remember the value of these relationships.

“When you’re stressed, it’s difficult to cope and make decisions in the moment. Stress hormones are released and we react in one of two ways: fight or flight,” the University of Georgia said. human development and a family science teacher, he said. “It can be very difficult at this time to think kindly, calmly and reasonably, so plan how you might respond or what you might do to manage these emotions.”

Futris suggested using the “WIN” strategy to defuse situations.

“W means ‘when’ and you calmly describe the situation, I means ‘I feel’ and you share what you feel, and N means ‘need’ and you explain what you need,” Futris said. “For example, ‘When we talk about politics, I feel really stressed and anxious, and I need us not to talk about it today.’ It just slows things down so you can convey what you need and ease the tension.”

Set clear boundaries before the event

Whether you’re hosting or just spending time as a family, setting boundaries can help you enjoy each other with less friction.

“First and foremost, set clear boundaries up front and do it with kindness. Clarify your expectations and ask if everyone can be on the same page ahead of time,” Futris said.

Futris also suggested establishing house rules, summarizing everything from politics to the Falcons.

Setting boundaries can also help you plan how you will respond if a line is crossed, giving you more control over your response.

“You have no control over what other people say or do,” Futris said. “Know what strategies you will use to manage your own stress,” Futris said.

Stick to your plans

Sticking to your plans can be the difference between a perfect visit and one that stays way beyond its welcome.

“Plan how much time you’re going to spend on it,” Futris suggested. “If you know you want to stay until 3 p.m. and go home for the football matchlet people know in advance what your plans are. This way they can also plan and their feelings don’t get hurt. »

Self-care during this season is important, and if for some reason you want to skip an event or make alternative plans, do so.

“If you don’t want to spend half your vacation on the road, but still want to see each other, find alternatives like FaceTime or Zoom or other ways to just say hello, check-in, and connect if you can’t come in person,” Futris suggested.

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