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janedoe2Senior Contributor
I had some really rough end of year experiences that left pretty deep emotional scars. They have mostly healed over and I'm able to attend events after a decade of shutting down completely during this time every year.
I am now facing this time again and resisting the urge to shut down as I would like to participate without experiencing high anxiety.
Any suggestions on how to approach this end of year period?
In response to: Unsure of the Holiday Period
Unknown userMember
In response to: Re: Unsure of the Holiday Period
frogSenior Contributor
Hi @janedoe2 the festive season can be a minefield. I struggle to negotiate it every year, and how it goes sometimes feels random, and external to whatever efforts I make. Nevertheless, it's worth giving it some thought and planning to maximise the chances of coming through in better shape. I just wanted to say @Former-Member - wise words. I felt like you were talking to me. Thank you.
In response to: Unsure of the Holiday Period
TinselSenior Contributor
Hi @janedoe2 @frog @Former-Member
Definitely a struggle here too and interested to hear how others manage.
Much easier these last few years since my marriage ended and the kids have grown up.
And I really feel for all of you out there who bigger burdens to bear around this time..
I try to keep it small and low key.
And prepare early.
These past few years there are only a couple of gatherings that I find too stressful and for those I paint on the smile and engage as little as possible.
One thing I always try hard make it good for is the young ones. My two nephews for now and eventually grandchildren, I guess, if I'm lucky. If I can bring good memories for them to look back on then my job is done..
Tinsel 🧡
In response to: Unsure of the Holiday Period
TinselSenior Contributor
Hi @janedoe2 @frog @Former-Member
Definitely a struggle here too and interested to hear how others manage.
Much easier these last few years since my marriage ended and the kids have grown up.
The 'trouble makers' don't live close by these days;
And I really feel for all of you out there who bigger burdens to bear around this time..
I try to keep it small and low key.
And prepare early.
These past few years there are only a couple of gatherings that I find too stressful and for those I paint on the smile, get in and out again and engage as little as possible.
I don't host it's too stressful. Always bring a plate or two and I always head to the kitchen to clean up if I can. It keeps my mind from spinning and is kind of social but not too involved. Helps the guilt at bay for not keeping up with it all.
One thing I always try hard make it good for is the young ones. My two nephews for now and eventually grandchildren, I guess, if I'm lucky. If I can bring good memories for them to look back on then my job is done..
JaneDoe it's the anxiety that I find crippling too. x
Tinsel 🧡
In response to: Re: Unsure of the Holiday Period
TinselSenior Contributor
In response to: Unsure of the Holiday Period
janedoe2Senior Contributor
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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