Here come the Holidays and the stress that comes with them

  • Published
  • By Paul Buckingham
  • 17th Medical Operations Squadron
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  It's the holiday season again and some people are already wishing they were over. Over the years the holidays have evolved from a time of good fellowship to the most stressful time of the year. A spiritual season has given way to a merchant/ shopping season. Expectations have changed from being grateful for what one gets, to expecting that one should get everything. With these types of expectations comes predictable stress and eventually failure to achieve sometimes unrealistic goals.

The following is a list of common pitfalls of the holiday season and suggestions for dealing with those pitfalls.

 Money - Budget what you can really spend. The consequences of over spending result in stress and arguments after the holidays. Remember, what's more important than giving "things/presents" is giving of one's time and self.

 Time - Not enough time? Don't overwhelm yourself. You can't do everything! Make decisions on what is realistic to do with the time allotted (don't forget to save some time to relax).

 Humor - When things fall apart look at them from a humorous perspective. Holiday decorations (especially Christmas trees) are accidents waiting to happen. Try and look at unfortunate events from a humorous point of view.

 Not having enough - Be grateful for what you have and give to those who have less. Remember what the holidays are for and try to spread some of the holiday cheer to others. Helping those in need can give new meaning to your holiday season.

 What to do - What are the most important things you want to do? List and prioritize. Identify activities that mean the most to you and phase out those activities that interfere with your holiday enjoyment.

 Accept what you cannot change - Don't expect certain things to change if they have always been that way. Don't waste time and energy being upset about it being 90 degrees on Christmas day as opposed to snowing (In San Angelo it will probably be 90 degrees). Many military personnel are not able to spend time with their families. You can still call your family and make the most of spending the holidays with your military family.

Try to remember that the holidays are supposed to be enjoyable. Take the necessary steps to make that happen and the holiday season will take on a new shape for you and your family. Don't forget, if you need support there are services available if you need them. Mental Health (Family Advocacy, Alcohol Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment) 325-654-3122, Health and Wellness Center 325-654-5686, Chapel Services 325-654-3424, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator office 325-654-1559 and Airmen and Family Readiness 325- 654-3893. Which all have numerous programs and services ready to assist you.