The holiday season is upon us, bringing joy and celebration for many. However, it can also be a period of heightened stress and anxiety. According to a poll by the American Psychological Association, nearly 9 in 10 people report having increased concerns ranging from managing finances and coping with the absence of loved ones to potential family conflicts and other pressures during the holiday season.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’re sharing several strategies to help manage holiday stress and enjoy this festive season with greater peace of mind.
Stay Calm and Celebrate: Strategies for a Stress-Free Holiday Season
- Know and respect your limits. Remember it is ok to say no. This helps prevent holiday burnout.
- Get some fresh air and sunlight. Keeping yourself grounded during the holidays helps you manage your anxiety and stress.
- Avoid financial stress. Stick to a budget. Consider thoughtful, homemade gifts or experiences over expensive items to keep costs down.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks and involve family members in preparations. Sharing responsibilities can lighten your load and create a sense of teamwork and togetherness.
- Accept imperfection. Live in the moment rather than stressing over every little detail.
- Plan ahead. Deciding which events, you really need to be at and which ones you can skip will help you make the best of your time this holiday season.
- Pamper yourself. In preparation for the hustle bustle of this time of year, take time for yourself. Get a massage, take a relaxing bath, practice meditation and deep breathing exercises, put on some soothing music. etc.
- Be mindful about things that cause you to experience the most stress. Whether it’s family dynamics, financial concerns, or social obligations, identifying these triggers can help you develop strategies to cope with them. Being mindful of your stress triggers allows you to take proactive steps to mitigate their impact, helping you to enjoy a more peaceful holiday season.
- Focus on what truly matters. Reflect on the true meaning of the holidays and focus on what brings you joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, giving back to the community, or simply relaxing, prioritize these meaningful aspects.
- Embrace Self-Compassion. Accept that you can’t control everything and be gentle with yourself when things don’t go as planned. Practice self-compassion and avoid being overly critical of yourself during the holidays.
While holidays can be stressful, knowing and using tools to help you cope and manage increased stress can help these times more enjoyable for you and your loved ones.
Check out these mental health resources for more.
