Adults with ADD: Top 5 Ways to Have a Happy Thanksgiving

Well, the holiday season is officially upon us! And for some adults with ADD, this is the most stressful time of year.

I'm sure you're very busy this week, so here are a few quick and practical tips for managing your ADD this Thanksgiving (or any 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, and make a plan to deal with them.

Here are a few examples:

• 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 won't fuel the fire, like "I'm sorry you feel that way. I'd rather talk about a great book I'm reading right now."
• Do you get antsy after a long day? Plan to end the day early, so that you don't reach the point of irritability.

2. Don't Expect Perfection

Accept that the day won't be perfect. Nothing is! Whether you're hosting the holiday, staying with family, or visiting a restaurant, realize that something is bound to go wrong. That's life. Don't 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 and Accept Help

Whatever your role is this holiday, you don't have to do it all on your own. If you're 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 you're offered help, accept it with gratitude!

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 aren't meant to be hurtful. Don't 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 to prepare yourself NOW so that you don't get overwhelmed later!

How do you handle Thanksgiving stress? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Comments

[Debi]

For me to have Thanksgiving Day dinner go smoother when I am hosting, I start planning ahead with a simple menu, showing the names of people that have asked to bring things (always say "yes"!). It makes the day easier if I start setting the table a few days ahead, get out the serving dishes and label them with what's going in them and make as much as I can ahead of time (for example, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes and of course desserts). Even the turkey can be made the day before - it reduces the serving time since you have already done the carving. For the big day, I write out a schedule starting from the time I want everyone to sit down to dinner and work backwards so I know when things need to be put in the oven, taken out of the oven or taken out of the fridge. These things have really helped me. And, most of all, relax & have fun! It doesn't have to be perfect, just done with love. If you start feeling anxious, take the dog for a walk or give someone a hug. Happy Thanksgiving!

[Pam]

I know this isn't the answer you're looking for, but my solution is to cancel the day!

[Scott Hutson]

Jennifer,

This is a post TG-day "post a comment". Because I just found this place today. That being said, I can relate to the plans to deal with examples you wrote in this article. TG was a few days ago, and we did it here(my home), and yes it is quite stressfull.I am the cook here, and was that day.

When family/freinds start showing up...little by little the noise grows. Many conversation going on at the same, and I am in the kitchen listening, and holding back the urge to go in the living room and giving my opinion on subjects, that are turning into debates(a son-in-law that disputes and tries to argue about everything)is one example.

I think via of this article, you are describing an acurate state of mind(thoughts) that I had that day. I will search back and read more of your articles(posts). Thank you much! ...Scott.