[Image description: A list titled “10 Tips for LGBTQIA+ Folk for Reducing Stress During the Holidays.” The title and all the items are listed in blue, and there are snowflakes decorating the sides of the list.
1. Do some prep work. Think about past holiday stressors, what went wrong, who was involved, and could it have been prevented? This is not meant to make you depressed but rather, to help you find patterns so you will know what to avoid next time.
2.Practice self-care, both before and during the holidays. If you spend the week before the holiday dreading it, you won’t have any energy left for the actual holiday. Surround yourself with the things you love; Spend time with friends, read a good book, practice your hobbies, then ride the wave of positive energy through the holidays.
3. Take positive things with you. Dress how you feel most confident and bring other things with you that make you feel like your best self. Have a great picture of a friend that makes you feel good? Bring it! Love stuffed animals? Take one along! Remember to stay you!
4. Try to plan activities other than sitting around and talking. If you have something else to do, it can ease the pressure and also give everyone something else to talk about and worry about besides your sexuality. Go bowling or see a movie, anything that gets people out of the house can be a huge help.
5. Carve out some alone time. Even if it’s just a few minutes alone in a bedroom or bathroom, having some time by yourself can help you recharge and figure out how to handle any negative situations that may have come up.
6. Talk to your allies. Call your friends/partner/allies. Check in, vent, share stories, whatever makes you feel better. Also, know what Resources are available where you are. Is there a PELAG chapter? An LGBTQIA+ Community Center? Don’t be afraid to reach out.
7. Focus on what brings you together, rather than what tears you apart. If you have a problem family member, focus on your shared interests or experiences, rather than dwelling on the negative. Remind them that you are the same person that they have always known, regardless of your sexuality.
8. Remind yourself that this is all temporary. If you are visiting home, remember that you are not moving back in, you will eventually leave. If family members are visiting you, remember that eventually THEY will leave. Remember you always have the power to leave situations that make you upset, even if it is just for a few minutes.
9. Do something nice for yourself when it’s all over. Plan a trip, give yourself a present, spend a few hours looking at cat pictures on the internet. Do something that makes you happy and is just for you.
10. Remember that holidays are stressful for everyone. Be kind to yourself and the people in your life. Know that their reactions to things might not be the same in a less-stressful environment. Assume good will and think positive!
At the bottom, there is small print that says “From Orientation: Teaching about Identity, Attraction and Behavior. Copyright © 2016 by The Center for Sex Education.” End of description.]
