Holiday Survival Kit
The holiday season has arrived, and with it a whirlwind of preparations, expectations, and obligations. The holiday atmosphere can become overwhelming, especially if you or a loved one is deployed this year. Are you tempted to wonder how you can survive the holidays, much less enjoy them? Don't despair -- here are some lifelines from HOOAH 4 HEALTH.
Nutrition, Weight Management, and Stress Reduction
An essential element of survival is keeping your body in top form. Learn how eating and exercising right can help "lighten your load" in more ways than one! Plus, obtain help for depression and grief during this season when happiness is too often expected and assumed.
- Holiday Nutrition - Traditional holiday treats can fit into a healthful eating plan! It just takes a little planning and discipline.
- Healthy Recipes - Try this heart-healthy version of pumpkin pie and other recipes from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Plus, check out First Lady Laura Bush's guacamole recipe from the White House web site!
- Weight Gain over the Holidays - Holiday weight gain is not inevitable. Here's how to keep it under control.
- Exercise Away Holiday Stress - Don't give in to the temptation to cut out exercise during the holidays! It's a great de-stressor.
- Stress-Free Holidays for All! - Retired U.S. Army Drill Instructor Lucy Hawkins provides a program for reducing stress through exercise.
- A Holiday KISS from HOOAH 4 HEALTH - Learn how the Keep It Simple Solution can help you overcome holiday chaos.
- Having an Old-Fashioned Holiday - Is it possible to have an old-fashioned holiday in this modern world? Yes, it is -- it's all in your attitude.
- Bereavement Resources - For those who have lost loved ones, the holiday season can be especially lonely and depressing. This page provides resources to help you through this difficult time.
- Domestic Violence - DoD and the Defense Task Force on Domestic Violence work closely to improve response to the troubling issue of domestic violence within the military community.
- Domestic Violence Prevention - Provides valuable resources including domestic violence hotline, prevention initiatives, and incentive program for improving responses to domestic violence in the Military.
For Deployed Soldiers and Their Families
Those who are separated from their loved ones because of a deployment bear a special burden during the holidays. It's hard to pretend things are "normal" when they feel all wrong. These resources can help you cope and remember that you're not alone.
- A Closer Look for Current Conditions:
A Fresh Glance at the Emotional Cycles of Deployment - As our country's operational commitments have increased throughout the world, military Families are now often faced with deployments in more rapid succession. In many situations, it is unknown when the deployment will end, increasing the anxiety and uncertainty for military Families.
- Deployment Guide: For Families of Deploying Soldiers - From separation to reunion and everything in between, this guide covers what to expect throughout deployment from the perspective of Family members left behind.
- TRICARE Eligibility - For your peace of mind, a description of the types of benefits available to deployed Soldiers and their Families.
- Operation Uplink - A program that keeps military personnel and hospitalized veterans in touch with their loved ones by providing them with free phone cards.
Suicide Prevention Materials
Are you or your loved one suffering from Holiday Blues or depression? Here are some resources to help you identify and deal with depression, and learn about suicide prevention.
Especially for Kids
Children can face the same issues at holiday time that adults do. Encourage them to talk about their feelings, but don't forget to have fun, too. Here are some resources for the smallest members of the Family.
- Dealing with Feelings - Click on the bug that describes your feelings. Are you a sadbug or a gladbug?
- Holiday Jokes to Share with Kids - What do elves learn in school? The Elf-abet! And there's more where that came from...
- HHS Pages for Kids - While you're on the computer during school vacation, why not learn some new stuff about health and your world from the Department of Health and Human Services?
Travel and Holiday Safety
Whether you're traveling far away or staying close to home for the holidays, the one place you don't want to visit is the emergency room. Follow the suggestions in the pages below to avoid the dangers of this season.
Give the Gift of HOOAH 4 Health!
Spread the word about holiday survival and good health throughout the year. Send your Family and friends HOOAH 4 HEALTH holiday postcards!
