ACS Mental Health Connector
November 2026
Embrace the Season: Simple Ways to Manage Holiday Stress
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and while the holiday season brings opportunities for gratitude, connection, and celebration, it can also bring a few unwelcome guests: stress and anxiety. Between busy schedules, family gatherings, and preparing for the year ahead, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? A little self-care and intentional planning can go a long way in helping you navigate the season with more peace and joy. As you prepare for the holidays, remember to give yourself grace, slow down when needed, and make time for the things that help you feel your best. Here are a few practical ways to manage stress and embrace the season with a little more ease.
Practical Coping Tips
🌿 Reset. When you’re feeling burned out, take a moment to pour back into yourself. Prioritize getting enough sleep, enjoying nutritious meals, drinking plenty of water, and staying active. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference in how you feel, both inside and out.
📝 Plan. Use this time to pause, reflect, and look ahead. Set aside a few quiet moments to think about your goals for the upcoming year. Focus on realistic, meaningful steps that align with your priorities, and remember that you don’t have to accomplish everything at once. Progress takes time!
❤️ Connect. The holidays are a wonderful reminder of the importance of connection. Reach out to family and friends, check in on loved ones, or make time for a meaningful conversation. Sometimes, a simple phone call or heartfelt message can brighten someone’s day, including your own.
🏡 Organize. Put on your favorite playlist, tune into an inspiring podcast, or enjoy a feel good movie while tackling that space you’ve been meaning to organize. Whether it’s a closet, a kitchen drawer, or a corner of your home, creating a little order can bring a sense of accomplishment and help clear your mind.
As we enter this season of gratitude, remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as showing up for others. Give yourself permission to rest, make room for joy, and focus on what truly matters. Wishing you a happy, healthy, and peaceful Thanksgiving season! May your days be filled with gratitude, meaningful connections, and moments of calm amid the holiday hustle.
NYC Counseling. (2024, November 28). How to manage anxiety around Thanksgiving: Practical tips for a stress-free holiday. https://nyccounseling.com/2024/11/how-to-manage-anxiety-around-thanksgiving-practical-tips-for-a-stress-free-holiday/
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Need a bed? Sleep in Heavenly Peace builds and delivers safe, comfortable beds for children, ages 3-17, who are sleeping in unwanted conditions such as on a floor, sofa, or sharing a bed with parents or siblings.
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Domestic Violence Group
The following links are resources for some of the local organizations dedicated to assist victims of Domestic Violence. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact Athens Police Department at 256-233-8700. Domestic violence victims are also encouraged to call Hope Place/Crisis Services at 256-716-1000.
Other Local Resources
- Limestone County Department of Human Resources 256-216-6380
- Athens-Limestone Family Resource Center 256-230-0880
- Family Services Center -Huntsville 256-551-1610
Family Resource Center
Athens-Limestone County Resource Center offers several resources for families. They would love to serve you.
Family Resource Center
406 S Jefferson St
Athens, AL 35611
(256) 230-0880
Toys For Tots
November 4, 2026
(9am-12pm) and (1pm-3pm)
Feeding Family Resource
These tips focus on building positive relationships, setting limits, and helping children learn to manage their emotions.
1. Stay calm and speak gently
Children often look to adults to learn how to handle big feelings. Take a deep breath, use a calm voice, and avoid yelling when possible.
2. Connect before you correct
Get down to your child's eye level and listen. Let your child know you understand their feelings, even when you cannot allow their behavior.
Try saying: “I can see that you are upset. Let's talk about it.”
3. Catch your child being good
Notice and praise positive behaviors, even small ones. Be specific about what your child did well.
Try saying: “I really like how you shared your toys with your sister.”
4. Set clear and consistent expectations
Establish a few simple rules and follow through consistently. Children feel safer when they know what to expect.
Try saying: “We use gentle hands. If you are angry, you can tell me with words.”
5. Teach children how to manage big feelings
Help children identify emotions and practice calming strategies when they are calm, not only during a meltdown.
Ideas include taking deep breaths, counting to five, squeezing a pillow, or taking a quiet break with adult support.
6. Make time for one-on-one attention
Spend 10–15 minutes each day playing, reading, or talking with your child without distractions. Positive attention can strengthen your relationship and encourage cooperation.
7. Offer choices when possible
Giving children appropriate choices helps them feel a sense of control.
Try saying: “Would you like to put your shoes on first or your jacket first?”
8. Focus on teaching, not just punishing
Challenging behavior is an opportunity to teach a new skill. Use reasonable, related consequences, and help your child practice a better way to respond.
Try saying: “It's okay to feel angry. It's not okay to hit. Let's find another way to show you're upset.”
Reminders for parents
Look for patterns: Notice whether behavior happens when a child is tired, hungry, frustrated, overstimulated, or having difficulty with transitions.
Keep routines predictable: Regular times for meals, bedtime, and activities can reduce stress.
Choose your battles: Focus on safety, respect, and essential boundaries rather than correcting every little thing.
Repair after difficult moments: Apologize when needed, reconnect, and talk about what everyone can try differently next time.
Ask for support: If behaviors are persistent, intense, unsafe, or interfering with everyday life, consider talking with the child's pediatrician or a qualified child-development professional.
Canadian Paediatric Society. Relationships Matter: How Clinicians Can Support Positive Parenting in the Early Years. Williams, R. C., Biscaro, A., & Clinton, J. (2019). Paediatrics & Child Health, 24(5), 340–347. https://cps.ca/en/documents/position/positive-parenting
Community & General Parenting Classes
Athens-Limestone County Children’s Advocacy Center (Limestone CAC)
Location: 104 E Washington Street / 413 Hargrove Street, Athens, AL 35611
Contact: (256) 998-5556
988 is now the active phone number that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This shorter number is easier to remember, and it provides free and confidential support for anyone in distress.
