During the holidays, stress can pile up on anyone. For those people who have Bipolar Disorder, this can actually lead to an episode of mania or depression.

Sometimes, you may find that you need to just say no. It can cut down on stress, save you money, time and grief.

During the holidays, people ask you to do things with them or for them. Many of these things you may not want to do or may not feel up to doing. All too often, people with Bipolar Disorder tend to say "yes" to just about every request made of them:

• Yes, I'll make dinner…
• Yes, I will get so and so a present for you…
• Yes, I will buy this…
• Yes, I will watch him/her…
• Yes, I will make cookies…
• Yes, I will travel here and there…
• Yes, I will throw a party…
• Yes, I will go to that late night party…
• Yes, I will stay up for Midnight Mass…
• Yes, I will pick up your friends at the airport…
• Yes, I will fix food for your party…
• Yes, I will watch your children while you party…
• Yes, I will help you clean up after your party…
• Yes, I will make home-made decorations…
• Yes, I will cook the PERFECT meal…
• Yes, I will get up early to run your errands…
• Yes, I will go out to a wild nightclub on New Year's Eve…

...and many, many more

If you want to save time and money as well as avoid dangerous stressors, simply say no to those requests that do not add to your quality of life or that you simply do not wish to do. You are allowed to say no. There is no reason to feel badly when you do refuse a request.

If you are a supporter of a loved one who has Bipolar Disorder, it can be just as important for you to select carefully those things that you choose to say "yes" to. If you are a survivor, saying no can make the difference between having a great holiday with your friends and family or ending up getting yourself into stresses that could lead to hospitalization. So, when you feel you need to – JUST SAY NO!