Holiday Solutions to ADHD challenges
Problem: I often purchase gifts at the last minute and send out holiday cards on December 20.
Solution: Write a plan with dates and deadlines. Be specific about what to order and when to order it.
You can begin in October with cards and in November shop for gifts. Both of these start with having a list. Use last year’s card list and update it in October. Ask your kids for their Santa lists in November. Giving yourself one task at a time frees you up to do that task well. Remember that stopping is as important as starting.
Problem: There are so many events that happen throughout the month. I find I am double booking and also missing programs I love.
Solution: Establish a command center in your kitchen during the holidays. Use a planner for you and your family’s holiday activities. Set up a specific spot for tickets and invitations.
There are so many options for you during the holidays. Make a decision on what is most important and write this on the family calendar. Designate a box, basket or magnet dry erase board to hold holiday invitations and tickets as soon as they arrive. Keep digital tickets in your inbox to use when you attend the event. If the event requires special attire pull out what you plan to wear on the weekend.
Problem: The holiday dinner is at my house. How will I get it all prepared and ready to eat?
Solution: Get a little or a lot of help with semi-homemade and catered food.
Meal prepping and planning may not be your strong suit. Get help from family and friends for a pot luck holiday meal. Check out local eateries foods to go for the main proteins in your meal and prep only the side dishes. Use fancy paper plates so there is less to clean up and more time with family.
Problem: I can never find the perfect gift for my family and friends.
Solution: Find gifts and gift cards that share experiences.
Spending time together is the best gift of all. This year find gift experiences that you and your family will enjoy. Gift cards give your family and friends the opportunity to choose their own special item. This one size fits all approach helps you give a gift with thought and streamline your shopping.
Many families enjoy sharing homemade holiday treats. If this is what you love to do, invite family and friends over to make a batch of fudge or peanut brittle. You enjoy the time together and they take home a treat.
Problem: My holidays are so jam packed I just don’t feel the holiday spirit.
Solution: Set aside time for self care and the one thing that brings you joy this holiday.
With all the things to do and the rush of the season, we feel overwhelmed, over stimulated and under energized. Write your self care on your calendar to be sure you are making yourself a priority at this time of year. Whatever your joy in the season, be sure you have that on your calendar.
While there are many more challenges with planning, executing and completing, remember that you can find solutions of all sorts throughout the holiday season.
I love the way you put this together, with common questions and concerns you encounter with those who have ADHD. Terrific suggestions for making the holiday joyful instead of stressful.
Wow, Ellen! You compiled a list of wonderful suggestions to make the holidays less stressful. I know how this time of year can magnify whatever stress we might already be feeling. We’re “supposed to” feel joyful, but the holidays can be a tough time for many, especially those that have lost loved ones, jobs, and feeling the strain of the pandemic.
But as you so beautifully described, it’s possible to celebrate by making a few adjustments like doing a pot luck dinner instead of cooking everything yourself. Or, forgoing physical gifts (and wrapping,) for giving experiences instead of things. Love all of your suggestions!
@Linda – there are always ways to make our time together easier! Thank you for sharing!
@Seana – these are the questions I hear all the time from my clients. I hope it is helpful!