According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise across the country, forcing many states to implement pandemic-related measures such as mobility restrictions. Because of this, your holiday plans will most likely be different this year. The CDC also reports that the pandemic is taking a toll on American's mental health, meaning you should have a strategy to manage stress around the holidays. Here are three holiday stress management tips to get you started. Make Self-care a Priority Being away from family during the holidays can be difficult. Psychologists find that human beings have a vital need for inclusion in group activities as they are social animals. If you can neither be with your family nor participate in volunteering in the shelters or soup kitchen, try to be proactive about self-care. To manage stress around the holidays, make sure to keep in touch with your loved ones so that you can have someone to talk to. This can also be the perfect time to take care of your body. Try to ensure that you get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and stay active. According to Harvard Medical School, regular physical activity not only keeps you healthy but also relieves stress and anxiety. Reach Out and Get Help If you have lost someone to coronavirus, the holidays are likely to be especially tough for you. Preventive measures such as social distancing and stay at home restrictions can make it hard to cope with loss and grief feelings. Acknowledge your emotions, and do not hesitate to get assistance from family and friends or even a professional if you need it. Make Alternate Plans and Be Realistic According to a report by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), two-thirds of adults worry that they or someone in their family will get sick from coronavirus. This number has significantly increased since the last poll. As COVID-19 cases continue to rise, Americans are shunning their usual holiday traditions to keep themselves and their families safe. Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and worry are quickly replacing the hustle and bustle of planning parties, Holiday dinners, and Christmas get-togethers. However, it is still possible to have a lovely holiday with those close to you. For example, you can re-create some forgotten family traditions and try them out. This can also be the perfect time to come up with new traditions. You can also explore creative and realistic ways to celebrate with your children and host virtual family reunions on virtual platforms such as Zoom. Use these holiday stress management tips to manage holiday stress during the pandemic. For extra peace of mind, purchase the right insurance coverage. Contact Bell Black Insurance today. We serve all insurance needs for those in Idaho Falls, Island Park, Driggs, Victor, Swan Valley, Ashton, and the neighboring communities in Idaho, as well as Jackson and Star Valley in Wyoming.