Surviving the Holiday Season with Chronic Illness
While the holiday season is often thought of as the most wonderful time of the year, it can be difficult for folks with chronic illnesses to navigate. The holidays can be quite demanding for anyone but when you live with a chronic illness we have to be very careful about managing stress and overextending ourselves in order to avoid a flare up. With extra tasks like shopping and preparing gifts or meals to travel and gathering with loved ones, the holidays leave plenty of opportunity for chronic illness burnout. This season can absolutely take a toll not just physically, but mentally as well. It can be very frustrating and disappointing when you can’t participate in all of the activities that bring you joy. It can also lead you feeling like you are letting down friends and family because of your health limitations.
However, this does not mean you can’t still enjoy the holidays when living with chronic illness. It might just take some extra planning ahead when it comes to managing our health needs and our seasonal expectations. To help you have a wonderful holiday season without giving up the fun, we created this list of tips and tricks. We hope this resource empowers you to take care of yourself with more confidence and less guilt through this busy time of year.
Save Your Energy
Shop online: Stores can be overwhelming, especially this time of year. The loud music, bright lights and big crowds can spike your stress levels and exposure to viruses. Skip the hassle and take advantage of the convenience of being able to shop from your couch!
Delegate: If you are able, this is a great time to utilize services like grocery and laundry delivery. Alternatively, you can ask friends and family to take over some of your errands and household tasks.
Take shortcuts: There is no shame in making this easier for yourself! Try using gift bags instead of wrapping gifts.
Practice Self Care
Slow down: Take a few minutes a day to check in with yourself, mentally and physically. Assess where you are at and make adjustments to your schedule.
Plan for rest: Make sure you are leaving yourself with time to rest. If you are able, schedule a full day to recover between events to give your body time to catch up.
Stick to routine: Easier said than done, but keeping up with your usual routine as much as possible can keep you from feeling run down. Aim to get the same amount of sleep as you usually do. Be sure to stay hydrated and fuel your body with the foods that typically help you feel your best.
Communicate Your Needs and Boundaries
Be honest: Open communication can go a long way - be honest about your limits, accessibility needs and any dietary restrictions you have. Yes, it can be uncomfortable to share, but your loved ones should respect your needs. By communicating, you are giving them the best chance at being accommodating.
Ditch the guilt: We know it is hard, but don’t feel guilty for putting your health first. Let go of obligation and do what you can. Replace “I’m sorry” with “thank you for understanding.”
Prep ahead of time: Practice navigating conversations about your health before heading out. Decide what you are comfortable sharing with certain people and how you might handle questions and comments regarding your chronic illness.
Plan Ahead
Think about transportation: Check schedules ahead of time if you are using public transportation so you are aware of your options. If you drive, take your own car separately to have flexibility about when you decide to leave. You might also consider asking a loved one to be in charge of bringing you home early if needed.
Have an exit strategy: Decide on a code word with a loved one to discreetly communicate when you need to take a break or have reached your limit for the day.
Be ready for symptoms: Keep a “flare kit” with you with things that might help if symptoms arise. Also make sure you have your medications filled, especially if you are traveling away from home.
Bonus tip: If you decide you are not up for an event, utilize technology to stay connected! Video calling can help you to feel included from afar.
How Chronius Can Help
If living with chronic illness feels like a full time job, you aren’t alone.
That’s why at Chronius, we make it easy to navigate the healthcare system as a patient. Our online care management platform brings together all of your health records and offers a 1-click appointment prep tool that easily synthesizes your health story for your care team. You also can track all of your symptoms, identify trends, learn from vetted medical information, and follow a custom patient journey map. Plus, if you needs hands on support, our Care Advocates are available to help you with any issues you may hit up against. Personalized support as you navigate your care journey is what we are all about.
Interested in learning more and signing up for our waitlist? Claim your spot today.
