I love Christmas but this time of year can really do a number on me.
The lead up to the holidays is so stressful especially when you work all week and then have a family to juggle after work. Those super organised mums who totally have their shit together leave me in their dust as I close another browser window too scared to click on checkout in case what I purchase doesn’t arrive on time.
The holiday season can be a challenging time for neurodiverse people so the lead up can be especially tiring for those who care for a child with ADHD or ASD.
The last 3 weeks I haven’t exactly been myself and that has been exhausting. I can finally feel that cloud lifting and things clearing up but the timing of my dive into the abyss could not have been worse.
Who needs doom and gloom hanging over them when Christmas is almost here? School is winding down, the kids are constantly fighting and let’s not forget what I like to call Leni moments. Those unforgettable times where he falls apart and life as we know it stops until everything ADHD related is in perfect alignment once again .
I’ve always loved Christmas. Carols make me happy and just seeing lights and decorations, makes me feel like a kid again. It’s a magical time of year but it can also be absolute chaos and very overwhelming for me.
The key to survival if you ask me is to pick your battles and only wage a war if there is no other option. Be kind to yourself and by that I mean be selfish. Do something that truly makes you happy and forget the guilt. If all else fails and your mind and body are not on the same page then just allow yourself to rest. Go to bed early, read a book, take a bath or just listen to your favourite song in the car, these are all ways that I cope when I’m feeling overwhelmed.
Don’t be hard on yourself and be patient with your neurodiverse children, partner or self because this time of year can really do a number on everyone including Santa!
Hang in there everyone. There is only 14 more sleeps until it arrives and on Boxing Day you can hang up the worry beads and just enjoy the ride into the new year.
Sending hugs to anyone who needs one right now.
Staying Focused 
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