Dec. 15, 2022 | The holidays are here and with them comes a certain level of stress. Whether it’s about family gatherings or the pressure to find the perfect gift for that special loved one, anxiety is a holiday tradition most people would like to do without. In 2021, the University of Michigan conducted a national poll of parents involving their stress levels related to the holidays. While 96 percent of the participants in the poll said the holidays were a happy time for their families, 18 percent rated their stress level as high during the frantic period. The greatest source of stress at 31 percent was the tasks and shopping involved during the holidays. 30 percent of the parents surveyed were worried about their family members’ health while 29 percent were stressed about their household finances. Twice as many mothers than fathers reported having high levels of holiday stress while one in five parents said their stress negatively affected their children’s enjoyment of the holidays.

Dec. 15, 2022 | You’ve heard it sung so many times already. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, according to the familiar Christmas tune, but for many people, the holidays bring a level of depression rarely felt during the rest of the year. One way to get a handle on your holiday hang-ups is to simply reach out a helping hand to others in need. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events or communities. Many may have websites, online support groups, social media sites or virtual events. They can offer support and companionship. If you’re feeling stress during the holidays, it also may help to talk to a friend or family member about your concerns. Try reaching out with a text, a call or a video chat. Volunteering your time or doing something to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships. For example, consider dropping off a meal and dessert at a friend’s home during the holidays.

Dec. 15, 2022 | Holidays are meant to be a fun, enjoyable time with friends and family. In an effort to minimize the stress that accompanies the holidays, it’s a good idea to have a plan to get you through the endless onslaught of cleaning, cooking, shopping and events. Between co-workers, friends and family, it’s inevitable that some commitments will end up on the same day. Make sure to plan on what you can attend in person or virtually. If you’re hosting the holidays, create a menu to help you stay organized and make grocery shopping easier. And don’t be afraid to say no. With holiday commitments, it is OK to decline a few or all of them. It also will help relieve some stress. Try sharing your to-do list with other family members. Remember to be realistic. You are only one person, and you can only do so much. Be honest with yourself about how much you can handle this season. Forget about perfection, and relax and enjoy the company surrounding you.

Dec. 15, 2022 | The holidays are notorious for ruining healthy habits. A short workout each morning will help your decision-making throughout the day. Encourage your family to try walking together to get in extra exercise. And don’t let the holidays become a food free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Try having a healthy snack before holiday meals so that you don’t go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks. Be sure to get plenty of sleep and when you have some free time, try deep-breathing exercises, meditation or yoga. Turn on some music, light some candles or open the windows on a sunny day. Research has found that listening to music and the scent of citrus can boost feelings of well-being, and vitamin D is always a happiness booster. And whatever you do, don’t forget about your own needs. Take a nap, read a book or watch a funny movie. Laughing relaxes the whole body, and can relieve physical tension and stress.

Dec. 15, 2022 | The holidays mean spending money, on presents, parties and all that goes along with them. To relieve any stress related to your financial situation at the end of the year, make a budget and stick to it. Spending money on your loved ones is important, but it’s also important to pay your energy bill. Don’t buy gifts that you’ll be paying off for the rest of the year. Instead of trying to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts, try donating to a charity in someone’s name. Maybe you are handy with a paint brush or a spatula. If so, why not make some homemade gifts for those special people in your life? Or start a gift exchange with family members or friends. Don’t let the holidays become something you dread. Learn to recognize your holiday triggers, such as financial pressures or personal demands, so you can combat them before they lead to a meltdown. With a little planning and some positive thinking, you can find peace and joy during the holidays.