It’s the last 6 weeks of 2024, and we’ve officially entered the holiday season. Christmas music is playing, lights are going up on buildings, and people are getting into the festive spirit. Holidays are meant to be a fun time of the year, hopefully spent with loved ones. However, this year could be a little different if you’ve recently sustained a concussion. Holidays may now feel overwhelming and overstimulating. But with the following tips, you can prevent the worst of the symptoms.
Traveling
Avoid travel on busy days and during peak times. Don’t travel on the day before Thanksgiving as this is one of the busiest travel days of the year.
Wear a hat, sunglasses, and ear plugs/filters to reduce overstimulation.
Stay hydrated.
Stick to your daily structure as best as possible. Continue to eat and sleep around the same time as you would at home.
Manage any time zone changes as best you can. If it’s 1-2 hours, consider staying in your time zone and just shifting activities to match.
Pack light. Use a packing list and follow it.
Use the airport wheelchair services when flying. This sounds unconventional, but it can really help to reduce the energy required to navigate through the airport. Typically this is a free service, but it’s always nice to tip.
Hosting
Make plans in advance. Share the plans with your family or friends. Try to avoid being spontaneous.
Let others know how they can help you manage your symptoms (e.g., keeping their voices down, respecting your rest time, etc.)
Delegate! Ask for help and know in advance that people will be able to help you.
Cooking
Use paper plates and plastic utensils. Fewer dishes!
Have a potluck so you don’t do all of the cooking.
Make simple recipes and don’t overcomplicate things. Also, there’s nothing wrong with storebought food.
Prepare food in advance as much as possible.
Shopping
Avoid shopping in person. Utilize shipping, delivery, and pick up options for groceries and other items.
Go in with a plan! Create a list of what you plan to purchase, and try to only grab those items in order to avoid impulse buys (impulsivity can be a symptom of concussion!)
Don’t wait until the last minute.
Shop when the stores are not as busy.
General
Listen to your body. If you are symptomatic, take a break. Don’t push through.
Create a script to discuss your injury and/or recovery. It can be difficult to put everything into words, so prepare this in advance. Be as detailed or minimalist as desired.
It’s ok to say no. If you feel that you are not going to do well at an event, politely decline without feeling guilty.
This is a small list of potential strategies to help you get through the holiday season after sustaining a concussion. There are many more and there is no right or wrong answer. Determine in advance what you can do to help you manage your specific situation. From there, just enjoy!