• Have reasonable expectations and be flexible. Real life doesn’t look like holiday movies!
• Avoid toxic people whenever possible. Every invitation doesn’t have to be accepted.
• Practice your breathing. Deep breaths can help reduce stress and tension.
• Read more tips in the booklet.

The holiday season can cause stress for children and teens too, and not all children and teens respond to stress in the same way. Watch for behavior changes in your child. Some common changes to watch for include:

• Excessive crying or irritation in younger children.
• Returning to behaviors they have outgrown (for example, toileting accidents or bed wetting).
• Excessive worry or sadness.
• Read more tips in the booklet.

The holidays can be challenging for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders (SUD). Here are some tips if you are in recovery:

• Put your recovery/sobriety first.
• Surround yourself with others in recovery, especially before or after stressful events.
• Remember-it is okay to say "no" to going somewhere that may threaten your recovery/sobriety or well-being.
• Read more tips in the booklet.

SAD, also known as the winter blues, is a type of depression that comes and goes with the four seasons. It typically manifests during the cold autumn and winter months when the days are shorter, darker and chillier. Some tips that may alleviate SAD symptoms include:

• Light Therapy. There are devices that simulate natural light. You should consult with your health care provider before trying any new therapies.
• Stay Active. A daily walk in the middle of the day could be as helpful as light therapy for coping.
• Create Social Situations. During the winter, a lack of regular social interaction can leave you feeling down. Try to push yourself to connect with others through phone, video or even writing letters. once you make the effort, the social interaction can lift your spirits.
• Read more tips in the booklet.

• If you have a loved one in recovery, ask them prior to an event how you can be supportive.
• Always have non-alcoholic beverage options.
• Be understanding if your loved one must leave early or can only stay for a short while.
• Read more tips in the booklet.

• Spend quality time with the older adults in your life. There is a lot to learn from them. Call, send a letter or spend time in-person.
• Plan. Make sure to plan ahead and involve the older adults in your life in the planning. What are their hopes and expectations?
• Be thoughtful. Many older adults experience memory loss, so keep this in mind when you’re telling stories or rehashing events from the past.
• Read more tips in the booklet.