12/16/2025
D.A.R.E. To Self-Care: Your Anxiety Action Plan
The holiday season often brings elevated stress, and with it, anxiety. When those racing thoughts hit, remember to D.A.R.E. to Self-Care with this simple four-step process:
D - Defuse: When your mind spirals with "What if...?" catastrophic scenarios, gently respond with, "What if not?" Challenge the negative assumption and open the door to a positive possibility.
A - Allow: Accept and Allow the anxious feeling without shooing it away. Trying to fight anxiety often makes it stronger. Acknowledge it, say "Hello, anxiety," and watch it pass like a cloud.
R - Rest: Rest your mind for a moment. Remember that your anxiety is just trying to protect you. Gently reply to it that it isn't needed right now. Take a deep breath and consciously relax your body.
E - Engage: Engage in an activity that captures your attention and makes you feel goodโwhether itโs a craft, reading a good book, exercise, or calling a supportive friend. Redirect your focus outward!
You have the power to manage your anxiety. Try the D.A.R.E. framework next time you need a pause!
