allll about holiday anxiety!

Back already for another post! If you’re reading this THANKS for following along so far! It’s so fun that I can just chat about all kinds of things on here while you follow along :) In today’s post I’m talkin all about anxiety during the holidays.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, “that’s a pretty negative topic to start off with especially at this time of year” WRONG!! I’m pleased to announce that anxiety is not a negative thing!!!! woooooo!!!! 
I mean, obviously it’s not fun or anything but it’s really just another part of me, and I wouldn’t be me without it (cheesy I know). 

So when I say holiday anxiety, I don’t necessarily mean being stressed about having to wrap gifts or bake a million cookies (although that can be stressful). For me, my anxiety around the holidays stems from different things. A big part of it is not being on my usual schedule, or really any schedule at all! And as much as the holidays are for relaxing and lounging around and all that good stuff, it’s hard for me to not have a schedule or specific tasks I know I need to get done. It’s hard for me to relax in some ways. 

Another big trigger for me is the GERMSSSS!!!! oh man the germs. living everyday with Emetophobia has it’s challenges (there are so many and they suck) especially during the holidays. We all know it’s sick season, so add a couple really important days that only come once a year and no one wants to miss due to being sick, and I am basically thrown over the edge!! Not to mention all the kids in the family (which I love with all my heart by the way) who are carrying and sharing many more germs than adults. I’m weak just typing this. Don’t even get me started on ALL THE FOOD. I know it sounds crazy because the food is typically one of the best parts of this season, but it’s just not like that for me. The food is almost frightening to me, because I find so much comfort in sticking to my typical foods that I know my body agrees with. SO. MANY. THINGS. 

All in all, this season is especially anxiety inducing for me, and probably for a lot of others with mental health disorders. It’s a viscous cycle because this time of year makes me anxious but then I get more anxious because I know this time of year shouldn’t make me anxious. The brain is a crazy thing people. 
If you’ve made it this far, you probably think i’m insane...I am!!!
Remember to reach out and check in on your loved ones, be gentle with yourself and others. 
Thank you so much for reading
Love, Maddi