The holiday season can be a joyful time, but it can also be stressful for a lot of people.

Fortunately, there are a few strategies we can use to help combat holiday stress.

Holiday Stress

How Do The Holidays Affect Mental Health?

As we approach the holiday season, it’s important to remember that it’s very common to feel added stress.

Consider this stress can worsen symptoms of a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, or a substance use disorder.

Why Do Holidays Stress Me Out?

Some of the main sources of anxiety around the holidays include affording holiday gifts, finding gifts and the cost of holiday meals.

Instead of focusing on spending, we could focus on spending time with loved ones and lowering our expectations to make things easier on ourselves.

Why Is My Anxiety So Bad During The Holidays?

We often have unrealistic expectations for what the festive period is supposed to look like.

Striving to meet that can make it a stressful time and somewhat anxiety-inducing.

The media can also be overwhelming around the holidays, which can put pressure on us to do more than we’re capable of doing.

Why Do I Feel Down During The Holidays?

As mentioned, the holiday season comes with its own set of stressors and expectations, both internally and externally.

Being overwhelmed by any of these holiday-related stressors can lead to symptoms of depression.

How To Deal With Family Tension At Christmas?

• Accept your family as they are.
• Be mindful of old patterns.
• Remember it’s just a few days.
• Adjust your attitude.
• Have realistic expectations.
• Keep potentially upsetting topics off-limits.
• Accept that the only thing you can control is your reaction.
• Don’t drink too much.
• Practice tolerance.

Why Am I Angry During The Holidays?

Having heightened awareness, irritability, and edginess during the holidays may be caused by past experiences with trauma.

Experiencing anger as a response to this heightened state is very common.

How To Deal With Anger During The Holidays?

• Count to ten before reacting.
• Take a deep breath and relax.
• Remove yourself from the situation if possible.
• Distract yourself with something else.

Why Do I Feel Sad On Holidays?

For some of us, it can be a period of painful reflection, sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and depression.

The holidays are often a time of high emotion and demands, which can leave a lot of people feeling stressed and exhausted.

Can People Get Happier At Christmas?

Being able to experience the nostalgic moments that are associated with the Christmas season can make anyone feel happy.

The opportunity to take a pause from life’s normal stressors, be with loved ones, and experience the gift of gratitude can enhance one’s state of well-being.

Strategies To Manage Holiday Stress

Set Realistic Expectations: Recognize that the holidays don’t have to be perfect. Set realistic goals and prioritize what’s most important.

Budget Wisely: Plan your budget for gifts and other expenses, and stick to it. Consider alternatives like homemade gifts or experiences.

Manage Time Effectively: Prioritize your commitments and don’t overcommit. Make time for self-care and relaxation.

Communicate with Family: Open communication can help address potential conflicts and set expectations.

Create New Traditions: If old traditions contribute to stress, consider creating new, simpler traditions that align with your values.

Seek Support: Talk to friends or family members about your feelings. Sharing your concerns can provide emotional support.

Take Care of Your Health: Get enough rest, eat well, and engage in physical activity to support your overall well-being.

Final Thoughts

If you’re having a hard time getting through the holidays for whatever reason, realize you’re never alone.

Even people that love the holidays can experience the blues during this busy season.

If holiday stress becomes overwhelming, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Thanks for reading, happy holidays! Please comment or follow the links.

Sources and other reading:

Coping With Holiday Stress

Dealing With Stress

Letting Go Of Anger

Dealing With Mental Health Stigma

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