It’s the most wonderful time of the year! We hear this phrase repeatedly during the holiday season, but for many people the holidays tend to be a time where stress levels become elevated. Although we anticipate the excitement that can occur during this time of the year, there can be a sense of anxiety, weariness, or even dread. If you find yourself experiencing these emotions around the holidays every year, keep in mind that these emotions can come from various sources. According to the American Psychological Association, 89% of individuals find themselves feeling overwhelmed and stressed during the holiday season. What are the sources of this holiday stress?
- Finances - Financial issues can cause a strain in other areas of one’s life, especially during the holiday season. Spending more money than expected or feeling like there is not enough money can be stressful.
- Family conflicts - Navigating through or managing family conflicts are a large source of stress because these are times when we are around our families the most. The expectations and obligations of family and loved ones can put a lot of pressure on a person.
- Loneliness - One can feel isolated due to not having anyone else to spend the holidays with or being a long distance away from their loved ones without the ability to reunite for the holidays.
- Grief - Some people are grieving loved ones who they used to spend the holidays with or friends that they have lost. This time of the year can trigger an emotional response when they are reminded that this person is no longer in their life.
Holiday stress can get the best of us, but it is something that can be manageable. How do we manage it?
- First, it is important to understand the source of your holiday stress. Being aware of it can help you tackle it properly.
- Once you have identified the source of your holiday stress, it is time to build your stress relief tools by preparing yourself ahead of time.
- Be proactive in planning before interacting with conflicting family members or loved ones who cause you stress. Learn what boundaries you are willing to set in terms of what you will and will not allow from them.
- Find time for self-care that does not feel like a chore. For example, taking time to unplug from your phone and listen to relaxing music/sounds.
- Set a realistic budget for finances. This is especially important when planning on giving gifts. Prioritize your basic needs first and then organize how much you have left over to give gifts. Remind yourself of the long-term consequences of spending too much money.
- Find a community to spend the holidays with, if possible. Also, lean on the loved ones who are still in your life while reminiscing on the good memories you have of your lost loved one.
Overall, remind yourself that the holiday season will be over and that a new year will soon begin. A new time to make fresh memories, set goals, achieve goals and become a healthier person physically and mentally.