Holiday Questions and Answers: Family, Work, Gifts, and Eating Disorders

During the holidays, people are always asking us at GROW questions about family, work, gifts, etc. So, here are a few general questions and some answers we might offer to some clients.  Gifts, meals, and family time can be stressful for anyone, any family, and any office.

Question: How long do you and your family need to stay with family during holiday events?

Answer: Spending time with family can be stressful for anyone. Especially when small children are involved. Stay long enough to enjoy the festivities of food and/or gifts, chat a little bit, and then leave. You do not have to spend the entire day there. But you do not want to “grab the loot and run”.

Question: My eating disorder is most amplified during the holidays. What can I do?

Answer: Schedule a session with your therapist to do a “walk-through” the difficult meals that you will have to experience with your family.

Question: How do I decide who I must get gifts for at the office?

Answer: Gift giving can be costly. Since most people are cutting back on holiday spending, having a “Secret Santa” or “White Elephant” event where you only need to buy one gift for co-workers or extended family can save some money and boost the holiday spirits in the office.

Question: Can I re-gift some presents I never took out of the box from last year?

Answer: Yes, you can re-gift. But, if the item was hand-made or “unique” you might want to hang onto the gift so you can show Grandma the knit-mittens she spent 40 hours on when she comes to visit.  However; when Suzy, from the office, gives you the same holiday socks, that she gave you last year, feel free to give those to your Aunt Sharon this year.

Question: My Company gave me a bonus last year. Should I plan on that same bonus appearing this year?

Answer: Never count on a “bonus” from a company. With the tough economic climate that we are in this year, companies are cutting back any and everywhere they can. These decisions might mean your Holiday Bonus gets cut too.

Question: What is the best way to spread Christmas cheer?

Answer: Singing loud for all to hear!

(From the movie Elf)