Preparing for the holiday season: A guide to manging stress, health and well-being with ITP

The holiday season in Australia and New Zealand is a time of joy, connection, and celebration. For families living with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), whether adults managing their own condition or parents supporting children, the festive period can also bring unique challenges. With thoughtful preparation, it is possible to enjoy the season while safeguarding health and well-being.

Managing Stress and Expectations

The holidays often come with busy schedules, travel, and social gatherings. For those living with ITP, fatigue, treatment side effects, or bleeding risks may require extra care.

Plan ahead: Prioritise the events that matter most and allow downtime between commitments. A calendar with built-in rest days can help prevent exhaustion.
Communicate openly: Let loved ones know about ITP and any precautions needed. This reduces misunderstandings and ensures gatherings are supportive.
Stay connected: Social support reduces stress, whether through family, friends, or the ITP community. Sharing experiences can help you feel less isolated.

Explore more in Stronger Together: How Social Connections Boost Mental Health.

Supporting Your Health Through Nutrition

While there is no single “ITP diet,” balanced nutrition can help manage fatigue and improve overall well-being.

Focus on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Stay hydrated, especially during summer festivities in Australia and New Zealand.
Limit alcohol and be mindful of supplements that may affect platelet function.
Encourage family meals that balance festive treats with nourishing options.

Embracing Joy and Connection

Living with a chronic autoimmune disease can feel overwhelming, but the holidays are also an opportunity to celebrate resilience. Focus on what brings you joy, whether it’s quiet reflection, time with loved ones, or participating in community traditions. Remember, your well-being is the greatest gift you can give yourself this season.

Relax and Recharge

The holidays are also a great time to slow down. Listening to the Beyond the Count Podcast can help families feel connected to the wider ITP community, hear inspiring stories, and gain practical insights during downtime. Podcasts are perfect for travel days, quiet evenings, or moments when you need encouragement.

Wellbeing and Self-Care

Gentle exercise, mindfulness, and good sleep routines can help both adults and children manage stress.

Sleep matters: Consistent bedtimes and calming routines reduce fatigue.
Movement: Walking, swimming, or yoga can boost energy without overtaxing the body.
Mindfulness: Breathing exercises or short meditations can help manage anxiety.
Parent well-being: Caring for a child with ITP can be emotionally draining. Parents should prioritise their own rest and support networks.

See Personalised Care: Easing Treatment Burden for Patients with ITP for more on reducing daily pressures.

Travel and Social Gatherings

If travelling, pack medications, medical documents, and know where local healthcare is available.

Safe activities: Choose games and traditions that minimise bleeding risk.
Boundaries: Do not hesitate to explain limits to family and friends.
Preparation: Carry a small medical kit, snacks, and comfort items for children.

Find more tips in ITPANZ’s Travel and Living with ITP.

Age-specific tips

Toddlers

Keep routines consistent with naps, meals, and medications.
Provide safe play options that avoid bumps or falls, such as soft play areas, crafts, or music.
Communicate with caregivers about ITP precautions, especially during family gatherings.
Bring familiar toys or comfort items to help toddlers feel secure in new environments.

Children

Encourage gentle festive activities like crafts, storytelling, or baking.
Explain ITP in simple terms so they understand their limits without feeling excluded.
Pack familiar snacks and comfort items for gatherings to reduce stress.
Offer choices so they feel empowered, such as picking which holiday activity to join.

Pre-teens & Teens

Involve them in planning to empower independence while reinforcing safety.
Encourage open conversations about fatigue, stress, or social pressures.
Support participation in safe sports or activities to maintain confidence and social connections.
Remind them that saying “no” to certain activities is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Adults

Adults living with ITP face the challenge of balancing commitments with rest, nutrition, and self-care.

Balance commitments with rest and don’t feel pressured to attend every event.
Prioritise nutrition, hydration, and mindful self-care.
Communicate openly with family and friends about your needs.
Use downtime to recharge—reading, listening to podcasts, or connecting with the ITP community can provide support.

This includes our mature-aged patients, additional considerations are essential:

Medication management: Seniors may be taking multiple medications. Keep a clear list and ensure holiday travel or busy schedules do not disrupt treatment routines.
Fall prevention: Holiday gatherings can be crowded. Take care with mobility, avoid slippery surfaces, and ask for support when needed to reduce bleeding risks.
Energy conservation: Fatigue can be more pronounced. Plan shorter visits or rest breaks during celebrations.
Social connection: Loneliness can be heightened during holidays. Staying engaged with family, friends, or the ITP community can boost emotional well-being.
Healthcare access: If travelling, know where local medical services are located and carry medical documentation.

Carers

Carers play a vital role in supporting both children and adults with ITP during the holiday season.

Watch for signs: Be alert to unusual bruising, bleeding, or fatigue, and seek medical advice if concerns arise.
Support routines: Help maintain medication schedules, rest periods, and safe activities.
Emotional well-being: Caring for someone with a chronic condition can be stressful. Carers should prioritise their own mental health by taking breaks, seeking support, and staying connected with others.
Shared joy: Remember to celebrate together. Carers deserve recognition for their role and should also enjoy the festive season.

Living with ITP, whether as an adult, a child, or a carer, adds complexity to the holiday season, but it does not have to overshadow the joy. With preparation, communication, and self-care, families can celebrate safely and meaningfully. The holidays are a chance to embrace resilience, connection, and the traditions that matter most. By planning and listening to your body, you can create a season filled with joy, balance, and well-being.

Happy Holidays from ITPANZ

May your season be filled with health, happiness, and connection, and we look forward to supporting you all again in the new year.

Stay Supported this Holiday Season

For more in-depth information and practical guidance, explore these ITPANZ resources: