To Reduce Holiday Stress, Reframe Your Thinking

If you find the holidays stressful, you’re not alone.

According to APA’s 2023 holiday stress survey, nearly 9 in 10 adults (89%) reported worries about money, missing loved ones, feeling on the outside of holiday celebrations, and anticipating family conflict cause them stress during the U.S. holiday season, traditionally celebrated between November and January.

If you find yourself overwhelmed with all the extra preparations and celebrations, the APA offers the following tips to help reframe your thinking about the holidays, decrease stress, and reclaim a sense of joy in the season.

Take time for yourself

You are not responsible to be everything to everyone. Not only is that impossible, but everyone around you will benefit if you take time to recharge your batteries. Be mindful, focusing on the present. Reflect on the deeper aspects of life that give you joy. Engage in restoring activities: take a walk, read a book, listen to music you love.

Volunteer

There are countless organizations making a positive impact in the world. Find a local charity that resonates with you, and give of your time. Participate in gift-giving or an adopt-a-family program. Practicing generosity – both by giving money and giving of yourself – have been shown to have a whole host of physical and emotional benefits. Giving to others lifts your mood and may change your perspective.

Adjust your expectations

Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or another holiday, no celebration is perfect. Laugh at missteps (and burned recipes) and practice resilience. If your children’s wish list is beyond your budget, set realistic expectations. Focus on the meaning of the holidays rather than expensive gifts.

Remember what’s important

The true meaning of the holidays can be lost in the whirlwind of advertising, shopping, and entertaining. Focus on what matters most – people in your life – rather than “store-bought presents, elaborate decorations, or gourmet food.”

Encourage healthy conversations

Take time to express gratitude, appreciation, and thanks for all you have, including your family members. If you worry about gatherings turning sour due to heated disagreements or negative conversations, focus on what you have in common. Find common ground. Look for the good in one another. You might even play games that encourage fun, laughter, and connection.

Seek support 

If you’re worried about the holidays, share those concerns with those close to you, as “getting things out in the open can help you navigate your feelings and work toward a solution.” You can even seek out a therapist to help you change unhealthy behaviors and sort through emotional issues so you can choose a more positive response to the circumstances you face.

Read the full American Psychological Association (APA) article here.