Winter Newsletter

Winter weather is finally upon us...please be safe and warm. 

The Holiday Season is a special time to stop and reflect on how much all of us have to be grateful for. So many things...big and little...we can be grateful for.  I'm grateful for the staff and board members who work so hard to help our clients. I'm grateful for all our volunteers and donors who support this wonderful organization. 

What are you grateful for?

Sincerely,

Child & Family Guidance Center of Texoma

Gift Cards for our Clients!

 

 

As we go through this holiday season, here are some tips from the Mayo Clinic that may help those who are struggling with live issues this time of year. 

1. Acknowledge your feelings. If you or someone close to you is going through hard times realize that it's normal to feel sadness.  It's OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.
2. Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events. They can offer support and companionship. Volunteering your time to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.
3. Be realistic. The holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones. For example, if your adult children can't come to your house, find new ways to celebrate together, such as sharing pictures, emails or videos.
4. Stick to a budget. Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend. Then stick to your budget. Don't try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts. Try these alternatives: Donate to a charity in someone's name, give homemade gifts or start a family gift exchange.
5. Don't abandon healthy habits. Don't let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Have a healthy snack before holiday parties so that you don't go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks. Continue to get plenty of sleep and physical activity.
6. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Take a walk at night, and stargaze. Listen to soothing music. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.

Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.

 

Happy Thoughts!