SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – The holiday season brings many joys and heartwarming activities, but along with all of the fun come more demands. Stress and depression can rise with the array of tasks that have to be completed during the holidays. 

Psychiatrist Mark Scanlan, MD, of Regional West Physicians Clinic-Psychiatry & Behavioral Health says, “Stress is not what happens to us. It is our response to what happens, and response is something we can choose. I encourage people to handle their stress in this matter.”

If the holidays have taken a toll on you in the past, Rebecca Kreman, APRN-NP, PHD, of Regional West Physicians Clinic-Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, suggests that you keep stress at a minimum by taking care of yourself.

“Relax and slow down; taking a small break from everything to clear your mind can make a big difference. Getting out of the house and moving around can help improve your mood,” she said. “Second, be realistic, everything doesn’t have to be perfect, so try to prioritize your needs. Don’t overspend on food and gifts. Try to just focus on one thing. Third, take a few short cuts. You don’t have to do it all. Instead of making everything homemade, buy sugar cookie dough premade and enjoy decorating them without the big mess in your kitchen, or just buy gifts for a limited amount of people and spend less money.”

If you have feelings of sadness or anxiousness, despite your best efforts to keep stress at bay, talk to your medical provider to see how they can help you. 

If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Regional West Physicians Clinic-Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, call 308.635.3888.

Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 providers, and over 2,000 employees, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.