Coping During the Holidays
(when things are less than perfect), Part 1
by Vivien Bergl, LCSW, CEAP

Thanksgiving is behind us and hopefully it was pleasurable. You may have read some of the stress tips we have sent in the past to help you cope during the holidays, but what about you?

Do those tips address what you are dealing with - your “special circumstances?” Perhaps you are divorced, getting divorced, getting together or not getting together as a step/blended family. Perhaps you lost a loved one, or are single and feeling lonely or possibly like the “odd man out”. Some families have lost income due to a job loss and may be struggling with finances. Or you may be struggling with health issues or emotional difficulties or family problems. And what about New Year’s Eve, and the expected, dreaded resolutions?!

Before you become discouraged, there are ways to cope and even enjoy the holidays!
So whether you are celebrating Hanukkah, St. Nicolas Eve, Kwanza, Winter Solstice, Three Kings Day, Christmas, St. Lucia Day, Boxing Day, or New Years in this month’s etips we will give you ways to relieve the stress and strategies to navigate the difficulties.

Most importantly, we are available to talk to you or your family members
offering free, confidential short term counseling and referral if needed. Just call our 24 hour number 1-800-526-3485 or check out our website www.solutions-eap.com<http://www.solutions-eap.com/>.

Next week we will address coping with grief during the holidays

Call Solutions EAP at 1-800-526-3485 for assistance for all of life's challenges.
It’s free, confidential and open to your family members.
Check us out on-line at
http://www.solutions-eap.com

George "Bud" Wassell, MS, LPC, CEAP
Director, Solutions EAP
213 Court Street
Middletown, CT 06457
860-704-6222 or 800-526-3485
fax: 860-704-6221
www.solutions-eap.com<http://www.solutions-eap.com>