Page 18 - December 2023 Gears and Ears

Here’s to Your Health

By Anne Peach

December 2023

Holiday: Coping with Stress and finding Your Balance

The holidays can be a stressful time. Feeling the
pressures associated with holiday shopping, gift giving,
travel, attending holiday events, or hosting family
gathering may all be contributing factors.
In 2022 the American Psychological Association
conducted a poll that revealed one in three Americans
indicated their stress level increased during the holiday
season. We know this can lead to increased anxiety,
depression, physical illness, and even substance
misuse

The reasons may vary but could include lack of time, financial pressures, gift giving, family
gatherings, to name a few. Setting high or unrealistic expectations may also add to feeling
stressed. Grief, loss and loneliness may be heightened during the holidays. Memories of loved
ones who are no longer here or family members where you might be estranged may add to the
complexity of your feelings during the holidays. The following are a few suggestions to
consider managing your stress:

Plan ahead.

Between family, friends, and co-workers, it's inevitable that some commitments will end up on
the same day or on consecutive days. P on what you can and want to attend in person. Is there
an option to attend some events virtually? If you're hosting the holidays, create a menu to help
you stay organized and make grocery shopping easier. This may also include making a
schedule of when you will do shopping, baking, and cleaning. How often do we get caught up
in wanting to do it all? Consider setting more realistic expectations for yourself and others.
Often, family and friends want to help. guests want to help. Let them! There is nothing wrong
with delegating or sharing your to-do list.

It's OK to Say No

While the holiday season brings joy, it can also bring more stress and some conflicting
obligations. How often do we get caught up in wanting to do it all? Aim to set more realistic
expectations for yourself and others.
It is important to simplify by prioritizing what brings joy and emotional recharge (people or
activities) and simplify when you can. While it may be fun to bake cookies for a party, do you
have time? What is the alternative?
It’s also OK to say no to some events to relieve the stress of trying to do everything! Finally,
saying no to situations that stress you out, whether it's trying to attend multiple parties or
missing a party in a week that's been too intense at work

Plan spending

Holiday spending can easily leave people in debt, contributing to stress that may last well
into the new year. Consider setting a manageable budget for gift giving and celebrations.
Avoid overspending and focus on celebrating. Set a realistic budget. This may require
negotiating with family and friends. Many families and friends have adopted a Secret Santa
approach with a dollar limit.

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