Waiting to adopt? These 5 tips will help you make it through the holidays

The holiday season is fast approaching, but not everyone is full of holiday cheer. If you’re adopting a child and you’re waiting to become a parent (or to add another child to your family), the holiday season can be a difficult time. For most Americans, the holiday season is a time to enjoy family and friends, with multiple parties and gatherings. If you’re waiting to adopt, each party can be a reminder of what you’re waiting for.

Waiting to adopt is a stressful situation at any time of the year, but for most families, it’s more difficult during the holidays. We’ve put together several helpful tips that will help you survive the holiday season.

Talk to someone about how you’re feeling

Talking about your feelings will always help – reach out to a close family member or friend. We’re here to help as well – you can call Lifetree at any time to talk. When you bottle up your feelings, you’ll only feel worse. A friendly ear, a shoulder to cry on, or a few words of encouragement can go a long way. You’ll almost always feel better after talking about how you’re feeling.

Be honest with everyone – including yourself

Following from our first tip, you’re going to feel better if you’re honest. It’s perfectly OK to feel depressed or sad. When you’re talking to your friend, or family member, or someone here at Lifetree, let it all out. Be honest about how you’re feeling. It’s OK to feel guilty that you don’t feel like celebrating with everyone else. You don’t have to pretend – being honest will help you make it through. You’re allowed to skip that party that you just don’t feel up to. It’s OK to be sad, and it’s OK to cry. Being honest and letting your feelings out will help you feel better.

Do something to distract yourself

If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed, distraction can help you feel better. If you’ve got something to keep yourself busy, you won’t have as much time to focus on how you’re feeling sad or depressed. It’s amazing how keeping yourself busy keeps your mind focused on what you’re doing. You’ll concentrate on what you’re doing, and you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment when you’re finished. It can be a big project like redecorating or repainting a room, or something simple like crafting, baking, or making homemade gifts for Christmas.

Put yourself first

Don’t forget to take time for yourself – you don’t have to feel guilty about taking care of yourself. Soak in a relaxing bath, read a new book, get a massage, go see a movie – taking a little time for yourself helps you relax and unwind. You’ll reset yourself and feel fresh, which helps you stay sane during the busy holiday season.

Do something amazing for someone else

Helping others always makes you feel good. If you’re feeling down, helping those in need can really help you forget about yourself and feel amazing. Simple nice gestures for friends and family might be all it takes to lift your spirits. You can volunteer for local charities, serve food at the local soup kitchen, or donate food or gifts to a family in need.

We hope these five tips will help you make it through the holiday season – and always remember: you’re going to have a new baby soon! You’ve got something amazing to look forward to – and all of us at Lifetree are here to help you whenever you need it. You can call us any time – we’ll talk to you on the phone, go grab lunch – whatever you need, we’re here to help!