Tips To Get Through The Hollidays With Chronic Illness

 

By: Paula Short

Do you have a chronic or invisible illness? Are you almost dreading the Christmas season? 

 
When holiday time approaches, those of us with chronic illnesses often find a spike in anxiety. We wonder how we're going to get through the hustle and bustle, cooking and get-togethers.  

 
We wonder and worry about what our pain, fatigue, and cognition will be like. Not to mention sensitivity to colors, sounds, light, brain fog, and anxiety.  

 
Everyone's different depending upon their illness; there's an enormous list of symptoms and effects that depend on the individual. 

 
Tips for getting through 

 

1.  Pray first. Ask Jesus to give you strength, perseverance, peace, and comfort for your day. 
2. Delegate. Ask others to help. Ask the children to help too. Most children like to be helpful, so give them something small to do. They can be the runners, bringing you and other adults items you need. 
3. Take a break. Don't be afraid to tell others that you just need an hour to lie down or sit on the couch. 
4. Get off your feet. Do as much as you can seated. Chopping, mixing, rolling, and peeling can be done seated.  
5. If you can, get a stool. This will help if you get fatigued and you need to be at the stovetop. 
6. Prep the night before. If there's anything that can be prepared beforehand, do so. For instance, chopping onions, preparing your pies in advance, and cutting your bread up if you make homemade stuffing or dressing. 
7. If you take medications, make sure to do so. You don't want to forget those before the hustle and bustle starts. If you do, you may be down for the count. 

 
While this is just a shortlist, it's food for thought. Tailor your own list to suit yourself. Who better knows you than God and you? 

 
In addition to these tips, don't forget to focus on the true meaning of the holiday season. Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and His gift of salvation. 

 
When you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that God is with you. He loves you unconditionally and He wants you to enjoy the holiday season. Cast your cares on Him and trust that He will take care of you. 

  

Takeaway 

Even when you're struggling with a chronic illness, you can experience joy and peace during the holiday season. Pray to God for strength and guidance. Delegate tasks to others. Take breaks and take care of yourself. And focus on the true meaning of the season: gratitude and the gift of salvation.