"The holidays have arrived, and we are officially in the danger zone. To avoid festive fatigue and "Jingle Bell shock," here is a guide to managing the seasonal stress that affects us all while keeping your dignity intact (if possible). Why is the holiday season stressful? For many, the only thing on our Christmas list is a nap. The exhaustion usually stems from unrealistic expectations regarding family, finances, and time."
"And speaking of gifts, in these shaky economic times, the pressure to spend a lot of money on gifts, especially if we don't have the money, can be also a stressor. A client in my practice recently joked that the North Pole's PR department lied to her all these years. "Giving" is not what it's all cracked up to be."
Holiday season stress arises from unrealistic expectations about family interactions, perfect decorations, and flawless gifts, amplified by financial strain and overcommitment. Social media pressures create guilt about not feeling perpetually merry and prompt people to fake joy. Continuous events from Halloween through New Year's create prolonged high-pressure periods that exhaust time and energy. Overextending through obligations leads to overwhelm and reduced well-being. Losing sight of the season's intent—reconnecting with loved ones and practicing kindness—increases risk of emotional breakdowns. Practical remedies include slowing down, pacing oneself, and setting realistic expectations to reduce stress and preserve dignity.
Read at Psychology Today
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