December can be exciting, but it can also be stressful — especially if you live with a chronic condition like psoriatic arthritis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, or another long-term illness. Busy schedules, winter viruses, travel delays, cold weather, and extra emotions can all affect your symptoms.
The good news: A little planning can help you feel more in control. Here are simple steps that can make December easier on your body and mind.
1. Refill Your Prescriptions Early
Pharmacies and doctors get busy in December, and some close for holidays. Refill your prescriptions before the month gets hectic. If you use a specialty medication that ships to your home, order early in case of weather or shipping delays.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if they can approve an early refill if needed.
2. Pack Extra Medication — and Keep It in Your Carry-On
If you’re traveling, always bring more medication than you need. A good rule is 3–5 extra days, just in case you face delays or lose your luggage.
Carry your medication with you in your carry-on bag, not your checked bag. If you take biologics or drugs that need to stay cool, use a small insulated travel case.
Consider keeping a printed list of your medications in your wallet. This can help if you need care away from home.
3. Plan Ahead for Infusions or Injections
Holiday schedules can make it harder to stay on your treatment plan. Talk with your care team early about:
- Moving an infusion that falls during travel
- How to time injections if you’ll be changing time zones
- What to do if you catch a cold or flu and need to delay treatment
Knowing the plan ahead of time can help prevent missed doses and stress.
4. Wear a Mask in Crowded Indoor Spaces
Flu, RSV, and COVID tend to surge in December. Many people with chronic conditions — especially those on immune-modifying medications — face higher risks from these infections.
Wearing a mask in airports, planes, stores, or other crowded indoor places can help you avoid getting sick. Carry a few backups in your bag so you’re always prepared.
Learn more by listening to Season 3 of the Informed Immunity podcast.
5. Build a Small “Sick Season Kit”
A simple winter health kit can save stress when you’re away from home. This is especially helpful during travel.
Try packing:
- Masks
- Hand sanitizer with bag clip for easy access
- Tissues
- A small thermometer
- OTC pain or fever reducers approved by your doctor
- Electrolyte or hydration packets
- Extra chargers or battery packs
- Copies of your medication list and insurance cards
- Contact information for your doctors
6. Set Up Buffer Days to Protect Against Flares
Changes in routine, long travel days, and holiday events can drain your energy fast. Try giving yourself a buffer day after big plans. This is a day with fewer tasks so your body can rest.
Think of it as part of your treatment plan — not something extra or optional. Your future self will thank you.
If the holiday season increases your stress or pain, you might find this helpful: “Tis the Season to Set Boundaries”
7. Lower Stress Wherever You Can
Stress is a common trigger for fatigue and flares. December often brings more stress than usual — shopping, family expectations, financial pressure, or missing loved ones.
Try small steps like:
- Saying no to events you do not have energy for
- Asking others to share holiday tasks
- Setting a spending limit
- Taking short breaks to rest or stretch
- Keeping celebrations simple
Even tiny changes can make a big difference in how your body feels.
For more support, read “Holidaze with RA: Navigating Big Events with Inflammatory Arthritis”
8. Stay Warm and Plan for Winter Weather
Cold weather can make joints feel stiffer and more painful. If you live in a cold climate or are traveling somewhere chilly:
- Dress in warm layers
- Use hand warmers
- Wear supportive, non-slip shoes for icy sidewalks
- Bring mobility aids or braces if they help you
- Park close to entrances when possible
Planning ahead helps keep you safe and mobile.
9. Create a Travel Health Plan
Before you travel, take a few moments to prepare:
- Look up urgent care or hospital locations at your destination.
- Check how to store medications that need to stay cool.
- Pre-arrange services like wheelchair assistance and early boarding.
- Save your doctor’s after-hours contact numbers.
- Bring your insurance card and copies of key medical documents.
- Let travel partners know how to support you if you feel unwell.
You may never need this plan, but it brings peace of mind.
10. Make Space for Joy in a Way That Works for You
Living with a chronic condition means the holidays might look different for you, and that’s okay. You don’t have to meet anyone else’s expectations. Your holiday season doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
Think about what brings you comfort or joy, like:
- A quiet walk
- A cozy movie night
- Time with one or two close friends (Chatting online can be helpful.)
- A simple ritual that helps you feel grounded
- Saying yes only to the things that truly matter to you
The Bottom Line
December can be a lot, but taking a few steps now can help you feel safer, calmer, and more in control — no matter what your month looks like. Preparing early lets you spend more time on what matters most: caring for your health and feeling supported through the season.
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