By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
The holiday season is a favorite for many. For many others, Christmas can be difficult. Whether it's missing a loved one at the dinner table, having a room full of family members with differing viewpoints, or worrying about the cost to feed those family members, the holiday season brings with it its own set of stressors. Dr. Patrick Stang with the Center for Counseling in Great Bend appeared on 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM's "Center for Counseling" program Monday morning to talk about some ways to combat that added stress. He said talking about someone who has passed may be less stressful than the regret that comes when that person feels forgotten.
"Telling interesting or funny stories about the person who passed, interesting anecdotes, things they did around the holidays or in their life," he said. "It's one way to ease into it and talk about that person without doing it in a morose way, so people get their feelings out and talk about them and feel like they remembered and honored that person."
Having a house full of guests, even family members, is often stressful. For those worried about the extra costs of buying gifts, more food, or even getting regular chores completed, Stang suggests simply asking for help.
"Ask them for some help," he said. "A lot of people are glad to help. They want to help. They feel more useful, like they've contributed to the dinner, presents, or decorating by being involved with it. Sometimes people hesitate to ask."
Naturally, it's not always that easy. The holidays are filled with tradition, and Stang said a balancing act is required when trying to help others.
"Sometimes you have to be a little delicate about how you ask to help because you don't want to put them off because that's their tradition, that's something they want to do, or the way they wrap presents," said Stang.
The good news is the holiday season is temporary. Budget and family stress levels will likely return to normal after Christmas. Stang said other options are available during those stress-filled periods, including more sessions with a therapist or adjustments to medication. Many are affected by seasonal affective disorder during the winter months, resulting in lethargy, poor concentration, and changes in sleep and appetite. Light boxes are more affordable every year, and 15-20 minutes of light therapy in the mornings can make an impact. Stang also emphasized not over-scheduling, maintaining routines, and not over-indulging in alcohol or other mind-altering substances.