How to Survive a Chronically Ill Christmas

Here we go…the holidays are officially around the corner. Holidays are stressful for the healthy and the chronically ill. I’ve compiled a list of reminders that I try to stick to around the holidays. I’m not always successful at sticking to this list but it’s a good reference point if you start to feel overwhelmed.

  • Check your prescriptions well before the holidays to make sure you don’t run out of medication.
  • Shop online to avoid catching a cold or the flu.
  • Ask your doctor about any 24/7 nurse lines they may provide.
  • Dress for comfort.
  • Simplify. Use paper plates instead of your normal flat wear and use gift bags instead of wrapping gifts.
  • Let someone else cook. If you don’t have family close, a lot of grocery chains offer a complete meal with the turkey carved and sides and desserts prepared.
  • ASK FOR HELP. Whether it’s cleaning, gift shopping, meal prepping or decorating.
  • Everyone’s vision of Christmas is different. Do what version of Christmas brings YOU and your immediate family joy.
  • Be compassionate to yourself. The holidays are hard on us all.
  • Determine your limitations and stick to them!
  • Nap as often as you can.
  • Remind yourself when needed : You will not be able to make everyone happy.
  • Look for joy in the things you CAN do.
  • Take social media breaks if need be. Comparison is a thief of joy and most people only post their happy holiday moments, not the stressful ones.  Don’t let social media make you feel like YOU aren’t enough.
  • Have a person you can vent your holiday annoyances.  🙂

And of course, there’s always the Fake Caller App. This program rings your phone with a fake caller, then you can excuse yourself to take the call outside. This is great if you find yourself needing an excuse to get out of a conversation.

(I kid, mostly.)

Here’s hoping you have a Happy Holiday season,

Katie

By | 2018-11-16T01:29:23+00:00 November 16th, 2018|Chronic Illness, Holidays|0 Comments

About the Author:

Katie was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, cardiac syndrome X and AV malformations at 35 after years of inconclusive tests, including a visit to the Mayo Clinic in 2015.

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