There is often a lot of anticipation and excitement associated with the Christmas holidays. If, however, you are facing a divorce or the holidays without your spouse, there may be anxiety and dread.
Here are a few suggestions for not allowing the holidays to become an emotional meltdown.
- Don’t wait until the day before the holiday to make a plan. Force yourself to be with other people. Don’t lock yourself in your house and ignore the day. This is especially true if you have children. Find new traditions or new people to spend time with.
- Connect with a support group. Churches often have fun activities planned.
- If your child is with the other parent, find a place to go.
- Find some new meaningful traditions. Learn to make pizza or peanut brittle. Make ice cream and add peppermint candy.
- Take your creations to someone who might be alone. Find a home for the elderly or a detention home or jail.
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Find ways to enjoy the season even if you are getting a divorce.
Help your child make a gift for former in-laws if this is appropriate. This shows your child that they have permission to continue to love the other family. This reduces tension.
- Treat yourself to a massage.
- Make sure you get enough sun so you don’t suffer the effects of “seasonal affective disorder.”
- Hide away photographs or items that will trigger melancholy.
- Recognize you are of value. Love yourself.
For any help with a divorce or other family arrangements click here to schedule an appointment with Lambert Law or call 360-737-1473.