You can look forward to the pie and dread the group text. Both are true at once, and both are normal. If Thanksgiving is already tugging at your sleeve here in Arvada, the fix for holiday stress is planning ahead: five small choices that protect your energy before November 26 arrives. As an ADHD, anxiety, and trauma therapist in a quaint suburb outside of Denver, I know a little prep can turn a dreaded week into a manageable one. 🤍
How long should you stay at a holiday gathering?
Decide before you walk in. Two hours, or through dessert, is plenty.
Why it helps: a set end point means you're not debating yourself at hour three.
Try this: tell the host your plan when you arrive, then set a phone alarm for 10 minutes before you want to leave.
What can you say no to this November?
Pick one thing and let it go. Maybe it's the second party or the dish you'd have to cook from scratch.
Why it helps: one clear no gives your calendar room to breathe.
Try this: look at your calendar, circle whatever makes your shoulders tense, and send the no this week. "We can't make it this year, but we'd love to see you soon" works.
How do you make room for quiet during a busy season?
Put it on the calendar like any other appointment.
Why it helps: rest you schedule tends to happen, and rest you'll "get to eventually" rarely does.
Try this: block 30 minutes the evening before Thanksgiving with no screens or errands, then add one more the day after. A walk or a long shower both count.
Feeling stuck on any of these? Reach out here.
Who can you check in with when the day gets heavy?
Name one person before the day starts.
Why it helps: knowing someone's in your corner makes a long afternoon feel less lonely.
Try this: text a friend, "Can I message you around 3 if I need a laugh?" Then actually do it.
What can you say when a conversation gets hard?
Prepare one short sentence ahead of time.
Why it helps: when you're tense, finding words is tough, and a rehearsed line gives you something to reach for.
Try this: pick your line and say it out loud once in the car. Something like "I'm not going to get into that today. How's the new puppy?"
What happens in a first session with me?
Your first session is a conversation, not a test. We'll talk about what's been weighing on you and what you'd like to feel different. You set the pace. You won't have to share more than you want to, and you'll leave with one small thing to try. If it feels like a fit, we'll plan next steps together. Book your first session here.
Begin Healing With Bright Connections Counseling LLC
We specialize in trauma-informed, compassionate care for ADHD, anxiety, and trauma. Our therapists offer:
Online and in-person options across Colorado and Virginia
A gentle, attuned approach at your pace
Tools to build safety, connection, and self-trust
If you're ready to get started, visit our therapy for ADHD, anxiety, and trauma pages to learn more detailed information about our approach, or contact us to set up an appointment.
