In its most recent poll, the American Psychological Association reported that nearly nine in 10 U.S. adults say something during the holidays causes them stress. What’s more: two in five U.S. adults said their stress increases during this time compared with other points in the year.
Michael B. Jackson, MD, medical director of Behavioral Health Services at Montefiore Nyack Hospital, says while everyone’s situation is unique, in general, many younger people can find themselves struggling with the financial stress of the season, while adults 65 years and older may be more frequently dealing with grief and loss.
There’s a lot of pressure to do this, and provide that, so I have found that younger adults, especially with younger kids, may have a variety of financially related stressors during the holiday season” says Dr. Jackson. “Due to age, many seniors may have already had close family members who have passed, and the holiday season can be a potent reminder of what they have lost.
Dr. Jackson also noted that in certain industries, the end-of-year deadlines and meeting quotas can be a trigger. And if you have pre-existing mental illness—if you suffer from depression or anxiety, for example—you’re more prone to endure more stress.
But you can take steps to manage the pressure during the holidays.
Navigating family dynamics
Depending on the trigger, Dr. Jackson says you can do things to reduce stress. One way is to work with a counselor on setting boundaries. This is particularly important for managing toxic family dynamics.
Sometimes it’s hard to not participate in any particular family event, but you can work with a counselor to figure out ways to mitigate your exposure and learn the best way to deal with toxic family relationships,” says Dr. Jackson. “Sometimes it means minimizing your exposure completely; other times it’s just participating in an event but in a limited capacity.
Financial strain
Outside of public assistance, if you’re dealing with financial issues, there are programs available that can help make sure you have meals on the table and, if you have kids, that they get presents for the holidays. Dr. Jackson said sometimes pride can get in the way, so it can be tough for people to ask for or accept help.
Mourning loss
When it comes to grief and loss, not everyone, but some people tend to isolate. Dr. Jackson suggests that finding a way to participate in the holidays in some way – like spending time with extended family or friends, getting involved with community groups, or connecting with a church, temple, or other religious group with whom you may be affiliated. If it’s the elderly, most towns have senior centers that have events going on throughout the holidays, too, so be aware of what is available,
he says.
Extend a hand
While Dr. Jackson encourages everyone to be open to seeking and receiving help, he also notes the importance of loved ones, neighbors, and friends identifying when someone in their life is struggling.
Be there for that person,
he says. Be proactive, be encouraging; if it’s something that seems more serious, talk to them about making an appointment with a professional. You can’t force anyone to do anything, but you can be present and try to be helpful and supportive.
Source: www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/11/holiday-season-stress
