How To Manage Holiday Stress
The festive season also known as holiday season is an annual period recognized in many Western countries such as the United States of America which generally runs from late November and into early January. Major publicly celebrated holidays include Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve and allow for many to take time off to spend with family and friends.
Why are the holidays so stressful for me?
They say “tis’ the season to be jolly,” with holidays often being affiliated with decorations that brighten neighborhoods, scrumptious treats and celebratory spirits – but this time of year can also be a significant source of stress and a trigger for those that suffer from depression, sometimes called the “holiday blues.” In a survey, conducted in 2014 by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), it was reported the holidays contributed to individuals feeling sad and dissatisfied.
Based on the survey, 68% of people reported feeling financially strained, 63% said they felt too much pressure, and 57% said they felt they had unrealistic expectations and approximately 24% of people with a diagnosed mental illness found that the holidays make their condition(s) “a lot” worse and 40 %“somewhat” worse.
What stresses people out during the holidays?
It was unanimous that for many, this time of year can be stressful and here are some of the most common holiday stressors:
1. “I can’t get it all done.” - The Pressure to Get Everything Done
2. “I can’t afford this.” - The Financial Stress
3. “I can’t stand my family/friends.” – The Pressure to Socialize
4. “I’m lonely.” – Feeling As If You’re All Alone
5. “I’m exhausted” – Energy Management
With so many possible stressors during the holidays, how can you best manage them? Some major components can include self-care, time management and boundary setting- let’s go through each of the above stressors and put these to the test.
How to deal with holiday triggers
The Pressure to Get Everything Done
It is almost natural for many to put their best foot forward and want to do everything just right such as shopping, traveling, entertaining, etc. But we sometimes we literally just can’t do it all due to a the limited factor of time and energy.
Stress Busting Tip:
Plan Ahead – Make menus, write our itineraries, and set time limits to make sure you are preserving time for your must-haves such as rest and recover.The Financial Stress
Starting as early as September we are bombarded with ads and social messages of spending to depict holiday perfection, which can include gifts, table settings, gourmet foods, etc. And before you know it, our budgets are maxed out and our stress is through the roof.
Stress Busting Tip:
Set a Budget – Setting a budget early on in the year may help fight the temptation to overspend. Also, consider cost-sharing and work loved ones to share the financial load of hosting and gift-giving.The Pressure to Socialize
During this time of years, the opportunities to connect are packed, including work parties, family/friends’ gatherings, school plays, etc. And sometimes we feel compelled to come together despite its impact on you.
Stress Busting Tip:
Choose Your Events Wisely – You cannot be everywhere all at once and you shouldn’t feel pressurized to partake in events that will negatively impact your mental health. So, make it point to be picky and choose to prioritize attend gatherings that bring you peace and happiness.Feeling As If You’re All Alone.
For some, this time of year calls to attention their distance from loved ones and the absence of social connections. This is often common for remote workers and students.
Stress Busting Tip:
Volunteer – Try looking into ways that you can partake in an event and feel purposeful. Helping someone during this time of year allows for a feeling of immediate connection.Energy Management
From the potential of overindulgence in holiday sweets, late-night parties and having to do too many things in limited time, holiday exhaustion can be brutal.
Stress Busting Tip:
Be Mindful - Be mindful of your body’s cues, make time for exercise, watch your food/alcohol intake and get plenty of rest.
These are just a few tips to help you make it through this holiday season with less stress. For additional help in getting through the holidays be sure to contact us!