A recent study found that 88% of Americans say the holidays are the most stressful time of the year. Those polled stated the stress is caused by unnecessary pressure to produce the “perfect” holiday, take on more than they can handle, and have a jam-packed, chaotic schedule during the holidays. Friends, if this is your holiday then I encourage you to take a step to make your holiday season more manageable. Start with a list of all that is on your plate for the holidays. Then begin to set boundaries on your time, money, and people. Be reflective and be generous without being overwhelmed and depleted.
Neda Gould of Johns Hopkins Medical Center suggests that to reduce holiday stress we learn to accept imperfection. As we gear up for the holidays, we often set the bar impossibly high for ourselves and then feel upset when our celebrations don’t live up to expectations. Perfectionism leads to worry, hypervigilance, and anxiety. Instead, acknowledge that things may not go exactly as planned and that it’s OK if it’s not perfect. Imperfection is healthy and normal. Though it might take some practice, accepting imperfection can help us enjoy our holidays a little more.
Gould also suggests that you should keep things in perspective. For instance, don't let a long grocery line become a bigger deal than it needs to and ruin your day. While the cashier rings up the customers ahead of you, take inventory of the good things that have happened today or the things you are grateful for. Connect with someone else in line with a compliment or kind gesture and notice what’s around you with fresh eyes and an open mind.
There is a tremendous need for people to reach out and watch out for each other. This is in keeping with the spirit of the season. This holiday season, focus on what you can control. Try volunteering for a nonprofit or attending a religious or faith-based community for the holidays. Helping others who are less fortunate and focusing on something bigger than yourself is a powerful way to restore your joy during the holidays.
-Jerry Strausbaugh, EdD, LPCCS, Executive Director
https://www.nami.org/Press-Media/Press-Releases/2014/Mental-health-and-the-holiday-blues
https://www.nami.org/Press-Media/Press-Releases/2014/Mental-health-and-the-holiday-blues
