6 Ways To Reduce Stress Around The Holidays

The holiday season can be joyful and merry for many people, but it can also be an extreme source of stress for others. So, if you are someone who doesn't feel the holiday spirit, know that it's perfectly okay.

The American Psychological Association found that 38% of respondents said their stress levels increased over the holidays—which could lead to anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Furthermore, The National Alliance on Mental Illness reported that 64% of people with mental illnesses felt their condition worsened during the holidays.

Why does this happen? There are many reasons for increased stress during the holidays. Some reasons could include meeting work deadlines, financial pressures, and gift-giving. Even though the holidays can be more chaotic than enjoyable, there are ways to prepare yourself and deflect some holiday stress.

If you are struggling with stress, here are some tips to decompress and maintain good mental health during this season. Also, it's important to remember that professional assistance is available even if you put these ideas into action.

1. Accept Your Needs

First and foremost, your physical and mental well-being should be a priority.

To make yourself more prepared this holiday season, it's important to identify any triggers you might have. For example, is work making you more agitated than usual? Does the idea of shopping in a store the week of Christmas make you stressed? This information will help you identify the root cause of stress and how to manage it.

2. Manage Your Time

There never seem to be enough hours in the day—especially during the holidays. However, you can make the most of your time by prioritizing your activities and time.

A daily schedule can help you not feel overwhelmed by the day's tasks and deadlines. Also, feel free to decline any plans you don't want to attend. It's perfectly okay.

3. Express Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the most important foundations of humanity.

As the year draws to a close, it's a great time to reflect on the things you are grateful for and thank those who have supported your efforts. Because if we never express how we feel to someone, how will they know?

4. Setting Boundaries

In tandem with expressing gratitude, expressing our boundaries is also very important.

Even the most seemingly "normal" families can have complex dynamics. Recognize them and accept the fact that you cannot control their behavior. Also, know that limiting your time with certain people is okay. Your mental health comes first.

5. Exercise

Exercising is often easier said than done. However, moving the body naturally produces stress-relieving hormones (oxytocin) and improves overall health.

For most, daily exercise isn't realistic. Therefore, find time to be active at least three times a week. For example, you can set time for walking, bike riding, or a fitness class.

Regardless of the activity, make sure it's fun.

6. Eat Well & Sleep

Holiday parties, dinners, and cookie trays can challenge our eating habits.

Still, eating a healthy diet is important throughout the holiday season. Eating unprocessed foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other natural ingredients can build a healthy body and mind.

Sleep is also essential for a healthy mind—especially during the holidays. Meeting work deadlines and staying up late to do activities with friends or family can be mentally exhausting. For our bodies to function correctly, getting enough sleep is crucial.