Page 10 - DEC2021

Page 10 NEWFOUNDLAKELIFE.COM December 2021
Wellness
Ten Tips for an Alcohol-Free Holiday
Mid-State Health Center Bids
Fond Farewell to
Season
Dr. Gary Diederich as He Retires
BRISTOL Dr. Gary Died- erich, long-time family medicine clinician, will be retiring from Mid-State Health Center after 21 years with the practice.
Dr. Diederich graduated from the College of the Holy Cross and Penn State College of Medicine. He completed his residency at Akron City Hospi- tal and became board certified in Family Practice in 1982. Dr. Diederich is also an adjunct pro- fessor of Community and Family Medicine at Dartmouth Medical School. He has had immeasur- able contributions to healthcare in the Bristol community over his 39 years as a medical provider.
“It has been my pleasure and privilege caring for all of my pa- tients at Mid-State over the past 21 years. I am excited for this next chapter in my life to spend more time with my family, ex- plore the beauty of Newfound Lake and New Hampshire, travel across the country, and work on my golf swing.” - Dr. Gary Diederich
By: suzaNNe ThisTle
Deciding to be alcohol-free this holiday season may be eas- ier than you think. Alcohol does reduce the inevitable anxiety brought on by all the plans, fam- ily and friend get-to-gethers, and, as usual, stringing up the lights. However, you may want to con- sider how alcohol lowers your in- hibitions. Things you usually say “no” to, you say “yes” to after a few drinks. Also, alcohol is a depressant. If you already have ill feelings about the upcoming season, add alcohol, and it can worsen.
will support you in your efforts to abstain. Then, if you feel like having a drink, pick up the phone and call a support person instead.
6.Bring a sober friend with you to have a relatable compan- ion at your side. Some people find it entirely appropriate to have people outside their cir- cle attend their family dinner. Bringing a friend shows com- passion for others and will help you not drink.
7.Bring your own non-alcoholic beverage. By doing so, you don’t worry about whether the host has one of your favorite mocktails on hand.
8.Avoid situations where you al- ways drink or try having a cup of coffee instead.
9.Take a walk if the pressure gets too much. A 15-minute walk away from everyone helps you refocus, equipping you to go back in and talk with others.
10.If you think there is no way you can avoid drinking, you can kindly say “no” to the request for your attendance and not go. They may be upset at first, but you will stay sober and be a better family member or friend. Most people understand the pressures of drinking during the holidays and will be okay with your decision.
Holidays can be fun without alcoholic beverages, and you may find you like this season a whole lot better because you spend it alcohol-free.
As Dr. Diederich transitions to this new chapter, Mid-State is committed to helping his pa- tients transition their care to an-
other clinician in our practice. Please join Mid-State in wish- ing Dr. Diederich a happy retire-
ment!
Start the season off right by deciding not to pick up a drink to get through the holidays. If you never refrained from imbibing in that all too familiar cocktail or two, maybe this year will be an excellent time to start. Consider implementing the following ten tips for keeping your promise to yourself.
1. Arrive late to a gathering where alcohol is served or keep yourself busy if you show up early. Stay active while you are there by help- ing the host set up and clean up after.
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2.Try participating in medita- tion before heading out for your festivity. Meditation can reduce stress, decrease blood pressure, and balance your mood. In addition, even a short session of meditation can help reduce anxiety.
3.Park your car in a place where you can leave early. Design a realistic plan for leaving the event if you start to feel anx- ious.
4.Before the occasion, tell peo- ple you won’t be drinking and ask them not to offer you one. This preparation will help relieve the pressure of being asked unexpectedly.
5.Bring a list of phone numbers of people who won’t be drink- ing this holiday season and
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