If you're feeling sad, stressed, or tense during the upcoming holidays consider the following:

It's important to set reasonable goals and expectations. Avoid overextending yourself during the holidays, plan ahead, avoid chaos and stick to a budget.

Have reasonable expectations. If things are not perfect, that's OK. Prioritize what is important for you to do.

Get your rest. Set aside time for yourself to relax and sleep during the busy season.

Avoid focusing on unpleasant thoughts as this greatly impacts the way we feel. Do something else like taking a walk or having lunch with a friend or neighbor who may be lonely.

Focus on the positive. Instead, review all the positive things that you have done this past year.

Don't overindulge in alcohol or food. Enjoy holiday meals in moderation, because excessive food and drink will just make you feel worse. Alcohol is a depressant.

Fortunately, the symptoms of depression associated with the holiday season usually don't last andshould lift within a couple of weeks after the holiday season ends.

Consider getting help if you think you need it. if you have a marked change in your sleep or energy patterns, or struggle with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek the help of an experienced mental-health practitioner.

Here is something I have been working on:


http://www.squidoo.com/lensmaster/workshop/Psychotherapist