Adventures in Holiday Seasons

The Holidays are rough for everyone but add a chronic illness to the mix and it can be painstakingly heinous. Last year at this time I was just coming out of a pretty bad flare-up. It’s safe to say I laid low last year and avoided most Holiday celebrations, which was necessary.

Here are some of my tips to help you get through the Holiday season:

• It’s okay to say no. You don’t have to accept every invitation and you don’t owe anyone an explanation. Any sane person will understand when you decline with a simple, “I’m sorry I can’t make it.”
• It’s okay to leave early. I ghost at parties. What does that mean? I make a quiet and simple exit. If there are a ton of people I just don’t have the energy to say goodbye to everyone, so I make sure I thank the host and let them know I’m leaving, but I don’t worry about everyone else. Once I’m done, I’m done. I’m so grateful that I can turn to Kevin and say, “I’m ready to go,” and he will get up and lead the way out, no questions asked. 
• If you’re overwhelmed with medical bills and don’t want to spend money on gifts let your friends know. Buying gifts for everyone is expensive. Give people a heads up with some honesty. “I’m trying to save money so let’s skip the gift exchange.”
• Don’t let Social Media make you feel like you’re missing out. First of all, you have no idea what other people are going through based on one perfectly staged and edited photo. Second, put the phone down. If this time of year can really get to you, step away from Social Media. Take a hiatus until after the New Year. Delete the apps from your phone so you’re not tempted.
• Food. Ugh. There will be things at parties and events that you probably can’t eat. Prepare yourself. But, don’t let it stop you from enjoying yourself. If you’re not sure what to expect I recommend having a snack before you go. I’ve learned to brush off questions from most people asking me about why I’m not eating with a simple, “I’m good, thanks.” Sometimes that doesn’t work and you really want to yell, “I HAVE A CHRONIC ILLNESS THAT MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO EAT CERTAIN THINGS AND IF I EAT THAT I WILL END UP IN THE HOSPITAL WITH A BOWEL OBSTRUCTION!!” I recommend to not do that and just offer this white lie, “I had a big lunch.” 

The best thing I can say is to not put too much pressure on yourself and try to enjoy this time of year as much as you can. Easier said than done, I know. Wishing everyone a HEALTHY holiday season!