Handling Holiday Stress with Dr. Katie Gorman-Ezell

In this podcast episode, Dr. Katie Gorman-Ezell discusses managing holiday stress for individuals with POTS. She emphasizes setting realistic expectations and boundaries to handle the added stress and potential physical challenges of traditional holiday activities. She advises patients to create a list of holiday needs and non-negotiables to guide decision-making. While communicating these needs with loved ones, using written communication or having a support person can be helpful. She suggests adapting holiday customs, such as virtual attendance or changing how traditions are celebrated, to reduce stress and accommodate health needs. Dr. Gorman-Ezell also touches on financial stress and the potential for increased depression around and after the holidays, recommending seeking support if needed. The episode underscores the importance of prioritizing self-care during the holidays to maintain wellness.