02 Dec Holiday Stress Awareness

The holiday season is generally an exciting time for families because they get to spend time together and celebrate their love for one another. Something that often gets lost in the excitement of upcoming holiday is the stress that comes with it.

The Top Holiday Stressors Include:

• Family and Social Pressures
• Cooking and Cleaning
• Feelings of Sadness, Loneliness, and Loss
• Unreasonable Expectations
• Dietary Concerns, Exercise, and Sleep Routines

If you find yourself overwhelmed, stop, and ask yourself if what you’re doing is necessary. Your own expectations may be adding to your stress around the holiday season. Remember to go easy on yourself and give yourself grace in these trying times.

Some tips to help you prevent stress include:

• Asking people what they want instead of stressing over guessing what the perfect gift could be.
• Avoid overscheduling yourself when possible.
• Giving yourself grace about dieting.
• Set priorities and let go of impossible or lofty goals.
• Rest when your body tells you to do so.

While holiday stress is seasonal, depression can strike at any time. Talk to your doctor or a counselor is your holiday anxiety is extreme or interferes with your employment or homelife.

Through Educational programs and counseling for personal and operational stress, Zeiders is proud to assist Service members and their families in dealing with stress.