Anxiety and the holidays

Anxiety is a natural response to stress. Stress spikes, and you become anxious as fear or apprehension can set in. An estimated 40 million people suffer with an anxiety disorder called Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or social anxiety disorder. During the holidays, people can see a  spike in anxiety due to reconnecting with family or meeting new people at holiday gatherings.

Many of the same solutions to anxiety that are offered to those who struggle with general anxiety or social anxiety, can be applied to those  who nervous during their holiday reunions and gatherings.  Here are some tips to help you deal with your  anxiety:

• Talk with a friend or family member about your feelings. Speaking with others about your fears can help reduce the “fear of the unknown.” The feeling that “we’re all in the same boat,” can help lower the general anxiety that comes from the unpredictable nature of reunions or meeting new people
• Meditation, prayer, yoga, or use other relaxation techniques can help you reduce  your stress or anxiety.
• Exercise to release tension and boost your mood. Riding a bike, dancing, taking a walk, or participating in some form of exercise can reduce stress and anxiety that may be interrupting your happiness.
• You can practice role playing family interactions with a trust friend or relative. This does not replace the real event, but it can help ease anxiety through practice and creating scenarios that will help you visualize the day of the holiday reunion.
• You can also consult with with mental health provider to give you guidance about more techniques to deal with your anxiety. They may be able to provide insight about the root cause of your anxiety.

We at Genesis Psychiatric Solutions are here to help you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at (703) 955-0915 or email at info@gpsmindset.com.  

Author

Dr. Ifeanyi Olele Ifeanyi Olele, DO, MBA, MS, is a board-certified psychiatrist who sees adolescent and adult patients in the greater Washington DC metropolitan area at Genesis Psychiatric Solutions. Dr. Olele is a dedicated psychiatrist in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma-related stress disorders, and attention deficit disorders. Dr. Ifeanyi Olele is one of the few psychiatrists who utilizes psychotherapy (talk therapy) as part of his treatment plan.