As the classic holiday song goes, it is the most wonderful time of the year. But do you know what else the happiest season of all brings? Stress. This year is no exception, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic helping to complicate the season.

This year, many families feel comfortable getting together to celebrate time-honored traditions. However, these larger planned celebrations might feel worrisome or isolating to those living with cancer who choose not to or feel unsafe to participate due to their health.

Additionally, the planning, shopping, decorating, and cooking of the holidays is enough for anyone to become tired and overwhelmed. When cancer treatment is added to the mix, the holiday stress can become unbearable.

Still, those whose lives have been impacted by cancer have options for enjoying holiday events. When planning how to celebrate the holidays this year, following COVID-19 precautions or accommodating loved ones virtually can help make these gatherings safer.

If you or someone you love has cancer this holiday season, use these tips from the American Cancer Society to help lift your spirits and manage your merriment (and stress):

Do

● Give yourself permission to feel and express your feelings, whether of joy, fear, sadness, or pain.  Let yourself laugh or cry.

● Take care of yourself: Eat balanced meals and make time for some exercise.  Physical activity is a good way to release tension.

● Allow yourself simple pleasures -- hot baths, naps, favorite foods -- that will help lift your mood.  Find distractions like going to a movie, dinner, or a ball game; playing cards with friends; or other activities you enjoy.

● Prepare for the holidays.  Decide if you want to continue certain traditions or create new ones.  Plan in advance how you want to spend your time, with whom, and for how long.

● Enlist support for organizing holiday gatherings, meal preparation, and cleanup.

● Learn to say no.  You don't have to participate in everything.  People will understand if you can't do certain activities.

Don’t

● Don't pressure yourself with unrealistic expectations or try to do everything yourself.

● Don't overindulge in alcohol.  Because alcohol is a depressant, it can “bring out” or heighten bad feelings.

● Don't try to force yourself to be happy just because it’s the holiday season.

● Don't shop ‘til you drop.  Stick to a budget if you are going shopping.  Buying things will not make up for any negative feelings you are having.  Decide how much money you can afford to spend on gifts and other items.  Then stick to your budget.

● Don't try to do too much in one day.  Plan ahead, setting aside specific days for specific tasks.

● Don't abandon healthy habits.  Eat and drink in moderation.  Get plenty of sleep.

Coping with cancer during the holidays can be tough.  Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton understands and is here to help.  With over 32 years of experience, the Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton combines the convenience of receiving your cancer treatments close to home with the effectiveness of advanced, high-quality cancer care.  Our patient care approach is more than just a focus on cancer treatment, it’s about making you feel at home, comfortable, and confident in the care you are receiving.  That is always important, but even more so during the busy holiday season.  Your time is vital and we want you to spend as much as you can at home, celebrating with your loved ones.

The treatment team at Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton care and we want you to have the most joyful, stress-free holiday you can have.  We are here to answer any questions you may have.  Everyone at Cancer Treatment Center at Hazleton wishes you a happy and healthy holiday season!