The holiday season is upon us, and while it's a time of joy and celebration, it can also bring a unique set of challenges that can take a toll on our mental health.
If the mere thought of spending time with your family during the holiday season makes you wish for a Home Alone holiday, then you might need these holiday survival tips.
Weston Family Psychology offers evidence-based therapy to assist you in regaining control of your life. Mental health concerns, such as anxiety and panic, are treatable—and it is our mission to create healthier minds and happier individuals throughout our community. Call us at (954) 866-3766 or email intake-coordinator@westonfamilypsychology.com today for more information.
Unwrapping Stress: Common Holiday Stressors
Holidays are often depicted as a time of joy, warmth, and togetherness. But, beneath the surface, there lies the potential for stress and anxiety.
We should embrace a realistic perspective on the holidays, understanding that imperfections are part of the human experience.
Recognizing the stressors below is your first step toward a healthier holiday.
The Pressure To Be Happy
The societal expectation for joy and merriment during the holidays can intensify feelings of inadequacy or loneliness for some individuals. The contrast between the perceived societal norm and personal experiences can contribute to heightened anxiety and, in some cases, depression.
Family Dynamics
Family gatherings can be both delightful and challenging. While the holidays are an opportunity for reconnecting with our loved ones, they can also bring to the surface complex family dynamics or unresolved issues, such as childhood trauma.
Balancing the desires and expectations of various family members (or listening to your uncle’s political opinions!) can also be stressful. The pressure to create picture-perfect moments may lead to feelings of tension and anxiety.
So you might surely find yourself looking for your holiday survival tips!
Financial Pressures
The tradition of gift-giving, while heartwarming, can also become a significant stressor. Financial constraints may amplify the pressure to find the perfect gifts to meet expectations and provide for your loved ones, leading to anxiety about budgets and expenses.
Social Obligations
The holiday season is usually packed with social events, and receiving a lot of invitations can be overwhelming and exhausting. Sometimes, it makes you feel like joining the festivities is more of an obligation rather than something to enjoy.
Also, introverted individuals may find the constant socializing draining, leading to increased stress.
Time Management
Juggling the demands of holiday preparations, such as shopping, decorating, and cooking, alongside daily responsibilities, work, and personal life can lead to feelings of being stretched too thin.
‘Tis the Season for Mental Well-Being
Recognizing that mental health should be prioritized, especially during the holiday season, empowers individuals to take control of their well-being and create a festive atmosphere that is both joyful and emotionally sustainable.
Amidst all the chaos, carve out time for self-care. It is not a luxury but an essential practice for maintaining good mental health, particularly during a time that can be emotionally charged and stressful.
Implementing self-care strategies is an investment in your well-being, ensuring that you not only survive holidays but thrive during them. It is a great way to restore balance and allows you to be fully present and engaged in the festivities.
Self-care also involves accepting that not everything needs to be perfect. Letting go of unrealistic expectations, both of yourself and others, can significantly reduce stress.
Tips for Surviving the Holidays
The key for you to survive the holidays is to be like a Boy/Girl Scout – always prepared! The following tips will help you get through the holidays with ease and grace.
Set Realistic Expectations
Instead of striving for a perfect celebration or party, focus on making memories that will last a lifetime. Have an open discussion with your family and friends about gift-giving, traditions, and plans to manage expectations and avoid potential conflicts.
Prioritize Self-Care Activities
Make a list of activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Is it reading a book, taking a walk, or listening to music? Prioritize them to recharge.
Schedule your "Me" time. Block out time dedicated solely to self-care and treat it with the same importance as any other commitment. Trust us, you need it! We all do.
Create Boundaries
Recognize your limits and be comfortable saying 'no' to additional commitments that may add stress. Setting boundaries is essential for preserving your energy.
Prioritize quality interactions over the quantity of social engagements. Meaningful connections can be more fulfilling than attending every event.
Have an Escape Plan
How to survive holiday gatherings? Be ready with your escape plan!
It may not always be possible to leave the anticipated holiday gathering entirely, but you can find ways to take a little break here and there throughout the event.
If the gathering is taking place at your own home, you can sneak off to your bedroom for a while. If not, the bathroom is never a bad idea. Going for a walk around the block can also help you get away from everything for a while and feel refreshed.
It may not be appropriate to leave the gathering altogether, sure, so taking short breaks of 10 or 15 minutes can help you cope better with the event.
Find an Ally
Spending time with extended family can be challenging for some people, especially when they feel they are not accepted or understood because of their identity, interests, or other reasons. In such situations, it is important to have a support system that can help you cope.
You can stick with a relative with whom you have a good rapport. This way, you will have someone to hang out with, and they can also stand up for you if things get difficult.
If you feel like you need additional support, you can ask your friends to be on standby and contact them when you need someone to talk to.
Give Yourself Something To Look Forward To
Find your own meaning for the holiday season. And when the going gets tough, remember that this stressful period will be over soon and that you have survived past holidays.
Make plans for after the social events, and keep them in mind when stress is eating you out. Few things are as comforting as getting excited about coming home to binge-watch your favorite show.
When Self-Care Isn’t Enough
Holidays, with their unique stressors, can sometimes necessitate more than just self-care. Seeking professional support is a normal and constructive way to handle stress and anxiety, especially during times when emotions might be heightened. It's a proactive choice that demonstrates strength and self-awareness.
The Benefits of Counseling or Therapy
Personalized Coping Strategies: Counselors or therapists can work with you to develop personalized coping strategies. This might include specific techniques to manage anxiety, navigate family dynamics, or cope with overwhelming emotions.
Safe and Supportive Space: Professional support provides a safe and non-judgmental space to express thoughts and feelings, which can be particularly valuable during a season when societal expectations may contribute to feelings of inadequacy.
Long-Term Well-being: Therapy isn't only about addressing immediate concerns; it's an investment in your long-term mental well-being. Building resilience and acquiring coping skills can have a positive impact beyond surviving holidays.
The Gift of a Healthier You
Getting through the holidays means recognizing stressors, embracing self-care, and considering seeking professional help if needed. Your mental well-being is a gift to yourself and those around you. It also enhances the quality of your relationships and the holiday cheer you bring to the celebrations.
Be kind to yourself during times of stress, especially during the holidays. Although stress can't be entirely eliminated, there are ways to manage it and reduce its effects. Learn what coping mechanism works best for you and implement them.
If you or your loved one need guidance on how to survive the holidays with family, schedule a consultation with Weston Family Psychology today. Discover the support that can make this holiday season truly joyful and mentally resilient. Reach out to (954) 866-3766 or intake-coordinator@westonfamilypsychology.com to get started.
Remember, seeking help is a courageous act that paves the way for a brighter, healthier future.
So, take the first step toward a healthier you!