Post by Samantha Lambert
Reviewed by Audrey Jung
The approach of the holiday season often brings corresponding rises in anxiety levels. It does not matter what religion is celebrated in your home or the familial structure which you come from. The fact of the matter is that being in a season that promotes family gatherings for celebration is not always something to celebrate. And that is okay.
This holiday season can highlight the stark contrast between different cultures, familial opinions, and family structures, which can leave individuals feeling drained. We must acknowledge these patterns to find a way to limit their negative effects and incorporate solid coping mechanisms into daily life as a shield.
“I Love My Family, but….”
It is essential to recognize strategies for protecting your peace in these high-stress seasons, and as family gatherings become more expected, individuals must be prepared for a myriad of potential challenges. This December, especially, brings a potential increase in tension due to recent political activities. Discussions of opinion and election outcomes may create discomfort or be a source of dread when looking at the calendar of family gatherings. Demographic and socio-cultural differences that are brought to the familial events can be another way in which differences are displayed. We can acknowledge the possibilities of these topics being brought up to better help our coping mechanisms to deal with any possible discomfort that may be encountered.
Another aspect of difference that is on display through the holiday season, especially with the premise of what the holidays bring: presents. Finances are not the same for everyone or every family. With the holiday season having an underlying tone of gift-giving and the presentation of wealth in various forms, comparisons can be made that may affect mental health. It is important to recognize the differences that are held within each family– one of those being the structure. True wealth is not limited to monetary gain; it also includes the generosity of time, support, and love. Sharing these gifts reflects a richness of heart and spirit that embodies a different kind of abundance.
This holiday season may bring up a myriad of issues for individuals who have families to celebrate with, but we must acknowledge the number of folks who spend these times alone. It has been noted that around 1 in 9 Americans spend the holidays alone, without any family members or friends surrounding them (One in Nine Americans Spent the 2020 Holiday Season Alone, 2021). These pieces of information are essential to understand when the winter months roll around so we can be more empathetic and understanding to those around us in all situations. Extending out a helping hand and creating a bond with those around you may serve as a coping mechanism and support system for not only yourself but also those around you.
Help During the Holidays
Where to go from here? Now that we can acknowledge the stress that comes from all aspects of the holiday season and family gatherings, we must develop coping mechanisms to strengthen our defenses against these situations.
It is Okay to Step Away!
Getting stressed from these situations is a common thing for the public, you are not alone in any feeling you may have. These emotions do not mean you do not love your family, it just means your boundaries are important, too. Anxiety is normal, and learning how to lessen the effects is essential.
Things You Can Do to Cope This Holiday Season:
- Take a step away!
Bring your favorite book, a journal, or even some sort of entertainment that brings you comfort and be ready to excuse yourself when you feel the anxiety starting to rise. Be okay with saying, “I’m going to go read my book, I’ll be down later,” or even, “I’m going to go for a walk, I will be back soon!”. Excusing yourself, calming yourself down, and creating a comforting escape from your stressors will benefit you in these situations.
- Grounding Technique
A sensory or breathing technique, such as the “5-4-3-2-1” technique, can help lower heart rate and bring calmness into your body in times of stress. This can be a great thing to incorporate into holiday plans.
- Set an Exit Plan
It is okay to recognize when you need to permanently excuse yourself from the situation, whether that be returning home, to a friend’s house, or even just resting in a separate room. Perhaps discussing emotions with a friend or companion before you enter your family gathering can allow for there to be a place to go to if the family event becomes too much to bear.
- Volunteer/ Reach out to your Neighbors
Now that we know how common it is for individuals to spend these times alone, offering yourself a level of support can be beneficial. Even though volunteering is known to be effective in boosting positive mood and self-thought, in these times, it will be helping yourself as well as all of those who need a companion when times feel dreary and very un-jolly.
This holiday season is about you, just as much as it is about anything else. Prioritize your health and wellness and know that therapy is always here to assist you when you feel like life is weighing on you.
References
One in nine Americans spent the 2020 holiday season alone. (2021, January 7). YouGov.
Retrieved November 11, 2024, from https://today.yougov.com/society/articles/33621americans-spent-2020-holiday-season-alone