5 Things I Do Each Year That Help Ease My Social Anxiety During the Holidays

POPSUGAR Photography | Diggy Lloyd
POPSUGAR Photography | Diggy Lloyd

For some, the holiday season brings constant, welcome entertainment: a month filled to the brim with festive work parties, Friendsgiving and Secret Santa brunches with friends, nonstop travel, and family gatherings galore. While all the music, gift giving, and delicious food make for a decidedly great time, many of us may find the social overload of the season to be overwhelming. Do you ever want to retreat to your room and Netflix and chill alone for a while in the middle of a family dinner? Yeah, me too. As someone who has dealt with social anxiety pretty much since birth (at 5, I actually preferred playing with rocks to trying to make friends), I've compiled a list of things that have helped ease my anxiety during the holiday party season. Hopefully they'll help you too.

01
Don't Get Too Wrapped Up in Gifts
POPSUGAR Photography

Don't Get Too Wrapped Up in Gifts

It may sound cliché, but one of the best ways I manage my social anxiety during the holidays is by stepping back a bit from the frenzied shopping and gift-related stress and simply remembering what the season is about: being grateful for and spending time with the ones I love. At least for me, finding the "perfect gift" can sometimes be too much to handle, especially when finding it means frantically wading through crowds at the mall.

Although it's practically impossible to forget about material gifts — and giving your mom a perfume because you know she loves the smell of gardenias can fill you both with joy — reminding yourself that the point of the season is not what gift you gave or received can be helpful in easing the stress. I've even taken it one step further, by buying gifts weeks or months in advance or suggesting a Secret Santa exchange with family and friends to help take the pressure off.

02
Remember You Can Always Say No
POPSUGAR Photography | Diggy Lloyd

Remember You Can Always Say No

This holiday season, I'm more committed than ever to turning down invites when I don't feel up to the task. You might feel obligated to go to a friend's New Year's Eve bash or that extended-family Christmas, but in my experience, it's actually liberating to admit when you're feeling overwhelmed. You'll probably find that you're not alone. Instead of braving parties unnecessarily, save your energy for the gatherings that matter most.

03
Do Something That Brings You Joy
POPSUGAR Photography | Blake Smith

Do Something That Brings You Joy

When the social obligations of the season leave you feeling depleted, it's important to take some time for yourself. I've always loved decorating for the holidays, as I find it almost meditative — it takes my mind off things for a while, and I get excited about the holidays all over again. Maybe you like to get crafty or bake or just have a seat and listen to some music. It doesn't matter what you do, as long as it brings you happiness.

04
Create New Traditions to Call Your Own
Pexels | John Paul Tyrone Fernandez

Create New Traditions to Call Your Own

One thing that has helped ease my anxiety during the holidays is coming up with traditions that make me feel comfortable and at home. It gives me some sense of control, which reduces unwanted stress. For example, if you typically feel overwhelmed at New Year's Eve parties, a small bonfire at the beach with your closest friends might be a better way to ring in the new year. Whatever the case, have the courage to create traditions that feel right for you.

05
When in Doubt, Spend Some Time at Home
Pexels | Daria Shevtsova

When in Doubt, Spend Some Time at Home

If you need to decompress after weeks of parties, awkward gift exchanges, and constant small talk, there's no shame in cuddling up at home with a new season of The Crown. Sometimes a quiet night in is just what you need to feel better. If it'll make missing out on the holiday fun a little easier, you can always wear your ugly Christmas sweater.