Coping with Christmas

This is my 3^rd Christmas without Mum. She used to put so much effort into make it special when I was little, so naturally, I associate this time of year with her. Ironically, she ended up being a Buddhist and didn’t believe in Christmas.

For HD families, the holiday season can be hard for a myriad of reasons, particularly as we travel through the lifecycle of the disease. Everything from symptomatic parents who want to create a special time for their children and families managing difficult relationships, through to remembering those who have passed.

There’s been times I’ve really struggled emotionally. I’ve been depressed, ridden with anxiety, and a real Grinch. Here are some strategies I’ve used over the years to get me through:

• Don’t ignore how you feel. Stop, think, and talk about what’s upsetting you and why – are you worried, sad, overwhelmed – and what can you do to address how you feel. For me, I cry, talk, then write a list.   
• Draw on the positive people in your life (aka the support crew) for help, such as emotional support or logistics (shopping or preparing for events).
• Polite distance with those who either just ‘don’t get it’ or aren’t on your side.
• Reserve your energy. Don’t over commit yourself to functions (hosting or attending), how long you spend at these functions, and who you talk to.

What are your tactics for managing this time of year? Also, as I don’t have any children, what do parents do to help manage the stress?