Top 10 Ways to Stay Safe and Sane During the Holidays

Christmas chaos. (Photo credit: Isselmuden)

As noted in our last post, we get it. The holidays are stressful. They bring out the best and worst in us and those around us, and they start making us think all those things we don't ever want to think about again. 

For the health of each of us, our families, friends, employers, employees, coworkers, neighbors, and humans (in general), it behooves us to remember a few key things about this time of year.

Just for you, we created a special infographic of the Top 10 Ways to Stay Safe and Sane During the Holidays. With these, you'll be able to weather the storms that may come so that you can make it to 2013 happy and healthy!

Without further ado, here are our top 10 tips:

"Top 10 Ways to Stay Safe and Sane During the Holidays"
By USAMDT of Westchester, NY and Stamford, CT

1. Only have a drink with a meal, not before or after.

2. Avoid trigger locations, like old haunts or the sites of previous emotional distress or pain.

3. Always have a safe ride home planned in advance, or just avoid drinking entirely.

4. Go for a walk when tensions begin to rise to release endorphins and gather some sunshine.

5. Just say "no" to that unsavory obligation.

6. Take time for yourself everyday. Even take a day off, if necessary and possible!

7. Do something you love to do. Read a book, go for a hike, play with your dog; Whatever it is that you love, do it!

8. Give yourself permission to let go, and build the boundaries required to do that safely.

9. Recognize that even the holidays are just another day. You made it through yesterday, you can make it through tomorrow.

10. Live like you are loved."

Use the social media links below to share this infographic with your friends and family on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+ or wherever else you like to roam!

Have any suggestions you'd add to our list? We'd love to know how you keep your head on straight these crazy times of year!