From time to time, everyone experiences some type of anxiety, but the holidays tend to bring on a lot more anxiety than other times of the year. Whether it's the financial strain of buying holiday gifts or seeing estranged family members, the holidays can be a hard time. Anxiety is the most common mental disorder and affects about 1 in 13 people. If you already suffer from anxiety disorder and you know that the holidays will bring on more anxiety, it is important that you take the necessary steps to reduce your anxiety. Here are four ways to help make it through the holidays without having a panic attack. 

Plan Your Time

Even if you know what to expect, anxiety has a funny way of creeping up on you. When the unexpected happens, your anxiety may become increasingly worse. The best way to combat this is to plan ahead. Around the holidays there are a lot more events and get-togethers happening. Take the time to sit down and create a schedule filled with all the events and celebrations going on. This will give you an idea of what you will need to prepare for before the event. Whether it is a school party and your child has to bring snacks or a church event where you need a covered dish, planning ahead can take away some of that last minute stress. 

Get the Necessary Help

Anxiety disorders are easily treatable in many cases, yet only about 1/3 of the people who suffer from it actually get help. There are many psychologists and counselors who specialize in anxiety disorder. They can help you get to the root of the problem, offer steps to overcome the anxiety, and offer ways to battle the symptoms of the disorder. If you are nervous about going alone, you can always get a supportive family member or friend to tag along. 

Stick to Healthy Habits

You cannot expect your mind and body to fight off anxiety when you are not feeling your best. Just because it is the holidays, you don't want to to forego all your healthy habits. Make sure you are still getting plenty of sleep and eating right. The holidays are a great time to overindulge, but it can leave you feeling down and sluggish. Even with all the events and a busy schedule, make sure you are getting in plenty of physical activity so you have the energy to get through the holidays. 

For more information, contact local professionals like Marcia M. Laviage, Phd.

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