Navigating Holiday Stress

As a therapist, I have seen many people struggle with anxiety during the holiday season. While the holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, they can also be a source of stress and anxiety for many people. In this blog post, I will discuss some of the common causes of holiday anxiety and provide some tips on how to best deal with holiday stress.

One of the most common causes of holiday anxiety is the pressure to have a “perfect” holiday. Many people feel like they need to have the perfect decorations, the perfect gifts, and the perfect family gathering. This pressure can be overwhelming and can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. It’s important to remember that there is no such thing as a perfect holiday. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on enjoying the time you spend with your loved ones.

Family gatherings can also be a source of holiday anxiety. For many people, the holidays mean spending time with family members they don’t see very often. This can be stressful, especially if there are unresolved issues or conflicts within the family. If you’re feeling anxious about a family gathering, try to focus on the positive aspects of the gathering. Think about the people you’re looking forward to seeing and the fun activities you’ll be doing together.

Here are some tips on how to best deal with holiday stress:

• Take care of yourself: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your physical health can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

• Set realistic expectations: Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to have the perfect holiday. Instead, focus on enjoying the time you spend with your loved ones.

• Practice relaxation techniques: Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga are all great ways to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

• Reach out for support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional for support.

Sources:

• Beresin, E. (2021, December 1). 10 Ways to Cope with Holiday Stress. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inside-out-outside-in/202112/10-ways-cope-holiday-stress

• Thriving With Anxiety This Holiday Season. (2022, December 10). Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/thriving-anxiety/202212/thriving-anxiety-holiday-season

• 7 Tips for Lower Holiday Stress. (2021, October 26). Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shrink-mindset/202110/7-tips-lower-holiday-stress