Jeffrey M. Brandler, EdS CAS
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Certified Addictions Specialist
420 Boulevard,
(973) 402-2647
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Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable.
Try to set realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time.
Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Be realistic about what
you can and cannot do. Do not put entire focus on just one day (i.e.,
Thanksgiving Day) remember it is a season of holiday sentiment and activities
can be spread out (time-wise) to lessen stress and increase enjoyment.
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Remember the holiday season does not banish reasons
for feeling sad or lonely; there is room for these feelings to be present, even
if the person chooses not to express them.
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Leave "yesteryear" in the past and look
toward the future. Life brings changes. Each season is different and can be
enjoyed in its own way. Don’t set yourself up in comparing
today with the "good ol’ days."
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Do something for someone else. Try volunteering some
time to help others.
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Enjoy activities that are free, such as driving
around to look at holiday decorations; going window shopping without buying;
making a snowperson with children.
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Be aware that excessive drinking will only increase
your feelings of depression.
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Try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a new
way.
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Spend time with supportive and caring people. Reach
out and make new friends or contact someone you have not heard from for awhile.
· Save time for yourself! Recharge your batteries! Let others share responsibility of activities
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