Ready or not, the holiday season is here! Along with the joy, traditions, and celebrations come the holiday stress of full schedules and extra responsibilities. Family gatherings, shared meals, gift-giving, planning parties, school and religious events, and welcoming out-of-town guests can be wonderful, but they can also create some serious stress.
So the real question is: How will you take care of yourself during this busy time?
If your first instinct is to pour a glass of wine or crack open a cold beer, you’re not alone. Many adults use alcohol as a way to relax. While an occasional drink can be a normal part of adult life, relying on alcohol to cope with stress can be harmful and sends a message to children that substances are a go-to solution for tough feelings.
Kids are always watching us, even in the small, everyday moments. When they see us reach for alcohol whenever we feel overwhelmed, worried, or down, they may come to believe that’s what adults do. Instead, we can be powerful role models by practicing healthy ways to manage stress.
The Mayo Clinic offers a stress-reducing strategy called the 4 A’s of stress management: Avoid, Alter, Accept, and Adapt. With any stressful situation, try using one or more of these strategies for yourself and your family.
Download the Know! Tip below to learn healthy ways to handle holiday stress.
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