Healthy Living: Holidays and difficult emotions
It's the holidays and many people are filled with the holiday spirit, but not everybody is in the mood to celebrate. Marcie Fraser takes a closer look.
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Holidays can trigger sadness and grief. Look for supportive people, avoid those who are not.
"Don't spend time with negative people who are going to bring you down. Surround yourself with loving, warm and healthy people who are going to help you stay secure and sane during the holidays," said Meghan Lemery, LCSW-R/Psychotherapist.
Family dysfunction can ruin a holiday season.
"Too close for comfort, you are used to each other, you never know people rub each other the wrong way sometimes."
The dreaded family get together…
"Examine your motive to spending time with family. If it is out of guilt and fear you have to take a step back and be willing to make changes to honor your peace," said Lemery.
If there are issues with certain people, limit your time.
"If you have difficult family members, have a plan to spend only a short amount of time with them. Let them know you will be definitely be stopping by but for a short period," said Lemery.
What do you do if they get mad at you for not spending more time?
"How a family reacts to your decision to honor your own mental health and peace, is not your problem," said Lemery.
Some people manage stress by drinking and eating too much, that can make the problem worse, keep focused on healthy habits.
"Make sure every day for that the month of December you have an intention of what you are going to do that day, whether it is a workout, a quiet moment where you are going to relax, make sure every day you have a self care plan," said Lemery.