FESTIVE ANXIETY TIPS

FESTIVE ANXIETY TIPS 

I wrote an Instagram post at the beginning of December last year: ‘It’s almost time to switch from my everyday anxiety to my festive Christmas anxiety.”  To this date it is still the most shared and saved post I have written.  

Just goes to show I’m not alone when it comes to feeling socially anxious at festive functions. (Although I have come a LONG way since last year and I no longer get too anxious at social events!)

Here are some tips to get through the festive social season.  

1.

Is it the event that’s making you anxious or the stories you tell yourself about the event? “Will I know anyone at the party?” “Will people judge me for dancing badly?” If you break down what’s worrying you about it - you’re assuming you have to meet a lot of new people, be a superstar on the dance floor, and stay the whole night. 

That’s a tall order even for someone who isn’t socially anxious.

Instead, break down the situation into small, achievable goals, like staying for an hour, introducing yourself to two new people, or dancing to one song. This will make the event feel less overwhelming.

2.

Choose what you’re going to wear at least one day in advance. It should be something that makes you feel confident, and is also comfortable.  So many times I’ve had the “I’ve got nothing to wear” tantrum after pulling my entire wardrobe out looking for the right outfit last minute. Plan ahead to reduce the stress. ⠀

3.

When you’re feeling socially anxious at a holiday event, a gin or two (or three) can seem like a harmless way to take the edge off. But using alcohol as a social crutch can actually keep you from overcoming your social anxiety in the long run. 

Typically, anxiety spikes leading up to and at the beginning of a social event, but slowly dissipates as you get used to your new environment. If you drink as soon you arrive, you never give yourself the chance to have this realisation. Instead, you start to believe that you need the alcohol to NOT feel anxious. Try resisting a drink for the first 30 mins. You’ll likely notice that your anxiety lowers on its own without the aid of alcohol.

4.

10 minutes of mindfulness practice before the event could help to keep you grounded and calm. Short of time? Try three deep breaths before you get out of your Uber.  If you find yourself in an anxious panic mid party - head to the bathroom or find a quiet spot and try some square breathing.  Breath in for a sound of three, pause for three, breath out for three, then pause for three…

5.

Still anxious about going to the event? Just don’t go. 

When the invite comes out if it’s not a hell yes then it’s a hell no. There’s no need to put yourself in situations that make you feel rubbish. Instead free up your time to do something you love 

6.

Do an activity that makes you feel good before you go to the event.  Some people feel good after a run or a gym session.  For me it’s going for a float or sauna.  Last year I had two functions on the same day.  I spent the whole breakfast function being that awkward socially anxious person and I was dreading the second event.  That afternoon I went for a float.  It cleared my mind of all the negative chatter I was telling myself leaving me feel more confidant.  The second event was a breeze.  

7. 

If you have a friend that says ‘no’ to events this time of year be considerate - they are probably suffering from festive social anxiety too. 

If they don’t want to go don’t force them.  Same goes for yourself.  Don’t let anyone force you or pursued you into going to an event that makes you feel uncomfortable.  Your mental health is more important than your career, money, other peoples opinions, the event you ‘said’ you’d attend, your partners mood and your families wishes, combined.  If taking care of yourself means letting someone down, then let someone down. 

8.

Not all festive get togethers *need* to involve alcohol or late nights dancing.   Arrange to celebrate the season with your friends and family in a way you feel comfortable.  Maybe thats inviting them over to watch a Christmas movie, an afternoon at the beach, a day at a spa or heading to your fave cafe for a spiced pumpkin latte.  

Let us help you find inner peace and calm this Summer.