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Copyright (c) 2007 Jennifer Koretsky

The holiday season is officially upon us! And for some adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), this is the most stressful time of year. Here are a few practical tips for managing your ADD this holiday.

1. Know Your Own ADD and Plan Ahead to Deal with It

You know yourself better than anyone, so ask yourself How does my ADD affect me on the holidays? Make a list of all the things that tend to stress you out on the holidays, and make a plan to deal with them.

For example:

Do you tend to say impulsive things that you later regret? Plan to take a deep breath before answering ANY questions so that you can think about your words before you speak them.

Do hyper kids or too many people overwhelm you? Plan to excuse yourself and take a brief walk when things start feeling chaotic.

Does a family member really make you mad when s/he starts nagging or becomes critical? Plan a simple response that wont fuel the fire, like Im sorry you feel that way. Id rather talk about a great book Im reading right now.

Do you get antsy after a long day? Plan to end the day early, so that you dont reach the point of irritability.

2. Dont Expect Perfection

Accept that the day wont be perfect. Nothing is! Whether youre hosting the holiday, going to a friend or family members, or visiting a restaurant, realize that something is bound to go wrong. Thats life. Dont hold it against yourself, or the people around you. Whatever it is, do your best to move on and let it go.

3. Ask For Help/Accept Help

If youre hosting the holiday, ask for help in the kitchen. This is perfectly acceptable, and most people are happy to help out where they can. If youre offered help, accept it with gratitude! You dont have to do it all on your own.

If youre a guest, offer to take over a task that youre good at or dont mind doing. That doesnt necessarily mean offering to cook or serve, it can mean keeping the kids occupied! (Or, in my family, keeping the dogs out of the kitchen!)

4. Remember That People Do The Best They Can

Long days with family members often end in frustration and hurt feelings. Try to remember that people do the best they can with the skills and tools they have. Hurtful comments probably arent meant to be hurtful. If someone says something to you that you find hurtful or offensive, ask yourself What is this persons intention? The answer will most likely be to be helpful. Dont hold it against friends and family members who may not have the necessary skills to express themselves effectively.

5. Smile!

Set the tone for those around you by being positive, smiling often, and enjoying yourself!

Thanksgiving is only a few days away. Take some time now to prepare yourself so that you dont get overwhelmed later!