Why Holidays Can Be So Stressful

For many people, the holiday season and the end of the year can be a stressful and difficult time. There are several reasons why this can be the case.

One reason is that the holidays often involve a lot of social events and gatherings. For some people, this can be overwhelming and can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. The pressure to spend time with family and friends, as well as the financial burden of gift-giving, can also contribute to stress during the holidays.

For some, holidays might also mean having to spend time with family members and relatives with whom they may not see eye-to-eye on important things. This can lead to rise in tension and conflict at times. Many people are also surprised to find themselves acting unlike their usual daily selves when around their family, as it can cause old family and interpersonal dynamics to surface - both conscious and unconsciously.

Another reason why the end of the year can be difficult is because it can be a time of reflection and introspection. Many people take stock of their lives and evaluate their accomplishments and failures over the past year. This can lead to feelings of sadness, disappointment, and even depression.

Furthermore, the winter months can be tough for many people. The shorter days and longer nights can lead to feelings of sadness and isolation, and can exacerbate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

To avoid feeling stressed during the holiday season, there are several things you can do. First, try to prioritize your mental health. Make time for yourself and do things that you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or going for a walk. Avoid overscheduling yourself and don’t be afraid to say no to invitations if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Another thing you can do is to set realistic expectations for yourself. Don’t put pressure on yourself to be perfect or to make the holiday season perfect for others. Instead, focus on the things that are truly important to you and let go of the rest. With certain family members, you might have to work on setting healthy boundaries with them, so they are not crossing any lines or being disrespectful towards you unintentionally.

Finally, make sure to take care of your physical health. Eat well, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. These things can help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

The holiday season can be a challenging time for many people. By taking care of your mental and physical health, and setting realistic expectations, you can help to avoid feeling stressed and enjoy the season.