How to deal with holiday anxiety without alcohol

The signs of holiday anxiety may include:

1. Feeling overwhelmed by a long to-do list, preparations, and holiday shopping.
2. Feeling anxious about upcoming events.
3. Feeling stressed by too many social obligations.
4. Struggling with loneliness or depression.
5. Feeling guilty about not being able to meet expectations.
6. Experiencing overindulgence in food, drink, or spending.
7. Struggling with family dynamics.
8. Feeling guilty about not seeing family or friends.

Here’s how your anxiety can get worse after drinking over the holidays:

1st of all, alcohol is a depressant, so drinking too much can make you feel more anxious, overwhelmed, and depressed. It also disrupts the normal functioning of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that help the brain communicate with the body.

2nd of all, alcohol can interfere with sleep, which can lead to more anxious feelings due to fatigue.

Finally, alcohol can reduce your inhibitions, making it easier for you to dwell on negative thoughts and feelings.

10 working methods for preventing alcohol abuse during holidays:

1. Establish clear rules for yourself and others in your household about the responsible use of alcohol.
2. Monitor and limit access to alcohol at home.
3. Avoid situations where it will be difficult for you to resist alcohol, such as going to parties, bars, nightclubs, etc.
4. Serve non-alcoholic beverages and foods or bring them with you whenever you are attending a party.
5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the evening to help avoid cravings and keep your energy up.
6. Make a list of alternative activities that do not involve alcohol (going for walks, exercising, yoga, etc.) and keep yourself busy.
7. Practice self-care activities such as reading, listening to music, or meditating.
8. Offer to be the designated driver or server.
9. Surround yourself with supportive family and positive peer influence.

Turn to a mental health specialist if you feel like you need professional help.