Managing Emotional Triggers During the Holidays

"These triggers often show up in ordinary moments. Maybe it's the tone of a relative's voice that feels critical, the stress of hosting a party, or seeing a social media post that highlights someone else's "perfect" holiday. You might notice your chest tightening or that you feel on edge around a family member who drinks too much, or suddenly tear up when a holiday tradition reminds you of someone you've lost."

"The holidays often stir up emotions we didn't expect. Maybe you dread a conversation with a critical relative, feel a sudden surge of anger out of nowhere, or start crying when a specific song or movie comes on. Emotional reactions to holiday triggers like these can be intense, leaving you feeling tense, anxious, or overwhelmed. Recognizing them and learning ways to manage them can help you navigate the season with more calm and ease."

Holiday triggers are emotional reactions that surface in response to family dynamics, memories, or seasonal pressures. They often bring unresolved stress, grief, anger, or conflict to the forefront, sometimes unexpectedly. Triggers can appear in ordinary moments: a critical tone, hosting stress, social media comparisons, sensory reminders, or a family member's drinking. Physical signs include chest tightening, feeling on edge, or sudden tears when traditions recall loss. Small gestures like eye rolls or sarcastic jokes can provoke disproportionate reactions. Noticing triggers enables deliberate responses rather than automatic reactions and supports recognizing patterns that lead to healing.

Read at Psychology Today