Anxiety can get worse for anyone around the holidays, whether you have a diagnosed anxiety disorder or not. There are presents to buy and wrap, parties to attend, family get-togethers, baking to do and the to-do list goes on. It can be an especially difficult time of year if you have to see relatives who don't understand your lifestyle or dismiss your anxiety or another part of you. This year, let me help you stop holiday anxiety before it gets too bad!

Here are some ways to feel less anxious this holiday season: 

1. Plan and get organized. In your phone calendar or in a planner, write down all of your holiday commitments. Mark down all the parties, family gatherings or special events you need to attend. Then make a list for each event on whether you need to buy a gift, make a dish or get a new outfit for that event. Planning in advance and having a gift ready for the day instead of having to shop last minute can help ease a lot of your stress and anxiety.
2. Same goes for gift giving! I love gift giving, but I often get too much anxiety trying to shop in stores around this time of year. Try online shopping or head to the store during off hours (never go on the weekend in December!). Make a list of who you'd like to buy for and make a budget. This can help you stay on top of things.
3. Simply stay away from that nosy aunt during your family holiday party. We all have that one relative (or maybe many) that insult you, don't understand your anxiety or lifestyle, ask too many questions, etc. If you have relatives that give you anxiety but you can't get out of seeing, just simply avoid. If they keep bothering you, excuse yourself politely. If that doesn't work, physically leave and get some fresh air for a bit.
4. Keep hydrated, eat healthy and exercise. These are no brainers for those of us with anxiety, but it can be hard to drink enough water, choose healthy foods and go to the gym during the holidays. There are more opportunities to drink alcohol, eat cookies and you might feel too busy to work out. But, your anxiety will be lessened if you avoid drinking too much, choose healthier options at parties and take time to exercise, even if it's just a walk after dinner. 
5. Buy yourself a small gift or ask for gifts that ease anxiety. Some popular ones this year are weighted blankets, fidget spinners and calming teas.
6. If you have to travel this holiday season, check out one of my other blog posts on how to practice self-care while traveling. 
7. If you start feeling too overwhelmed, say no to something. Take a night to relax, read, take a bath or whatever you need to do to recharge. 
8. Keep reminding yourself that as quickly as the holidays arrive, they will be gone. Take this time to enjoy things that only come around once a year, like beautiful holiday lights and know that the extra stress and obligations will soon be gone.

What do you do to ease anxiety around the holidays? Let's chat below!