Thanks, Brandon, for joining us. First, what are the factors that bring joy to the season?
The holidays are a wonderful time to strengthen relationships and create lasting memories with family. They also offer an opportunity for us to express gratitude for the positive aspects of our lives. Research shows that gratitude can enhance happiness, build resilience, and improve relationships while reducing stress.
And what are the factors that can bring stress?
Approximately 9 out of 10 Americans say they feel overwhelmed at least sometimes during the holiday season due to financial concerns, missing loved ones, managing responsibilities, and family conflicts. If you experience stress occasionally, you are not alone.
The stress usually doesn’t go away on its own, does it?
While the “holiday blues” may fade after the season, those prone to depression or anxiety may find the holidays especially challenging. Persistent stress lasting several days that negatively affect your daily functioning could indicate a more significant issue.
What are some of the possible repercussions for someone if the stress isn’t reduced?
Chronic stress can lead to depression and interfere with daily life, affecting work, self-care, and relationships. It’s essential to recognize and manage stress effectively. Some may also face painful memories during the holidays or be reminded of loved ones lost. Having a plan for these feelings and seeking help from a licensed mental health professional can be beneficial.
Can you please offer some advice on reducing stress?
Here are some tips for reducing stress during the holidays:
Be Present: Many people operate on autopilot, missing what’s around them. During the holidays, consciously notice the sights, sounds, and smells to stay grounded in the moment.
Breathing Exercises: When feeling stressed, try the 4-4-8 method: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds. Repeat this a few times to alleviate anxiety.
Gain Perspective: Remember that holiday stress is temporary. Ask yourself if your worries will matter in six months. This can help you keep things in perspective.
Make Time for Self-Care: Maintain your routine by monitoring your eating and staying active. Make time for activities you enjoy.
Take a Brief Pause: Spending time with family can be a mix of joy and stress. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, consider taking a break by going for a walk or spending some time alone. This brief pause can help you regroup before rejoining family activities.
Next, how can people set realistic holiday expectations?
Enjoyable activities can also cause stress. Don’t let the quest for perfection overshadow your enjoyment. Set achievable goals and practice self-compassion.
And what about how to say “no” to others without guilt?
It’s important to honor your feelings during the holidays despite external pressures. Check in on friends who may be struggling and offer support while prioritizing your own well-being.
Time management strategies?
Combat procrastination by breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Start with the first step right away. If you’re overwhelmed, consider cutting back on tasks to create more space for self-care, like watching a show or reading a book.
What about going into the New Year, when many people look to better themselves, holiday or not. Do you have any general advice?
As we approach the New Year, a time when many people seek to improve themselves, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Focus on long-term changes rather than short-term fixes when trying to alter your behavior. Start small and set manageable goals. Instead of attempting to make multiple changes all at once, concentrate on changing one behavior at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, seeking support from family and friends, as well as having a solid support network, significantly increases the likelihood of maintaining these changes. Finally, practicing self-compassion is essential. Remember, perfection should not be the enemy of progress. Sometimes you don’t follow through with your intentions, but the key is to refocus and get back on track by learning from your mistakes.
To get direct help and guidance about mental health services, call Butler Hospital’s Behavioral Health Service Call Center, available 24/7 at (844) 401-0111. For more information about Butler Hospital’s services please visit butler.org
