For some people, the taste of gingerbread cookies, the smell of cinnamon candles, and the flickering lights of Christmas trees can create an undeniable sense of holiday bliss. However, this time of year can also be associated with anxiety, tension and stress. In fact, the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Stress in America survey finds that many Americans report money as a significant source of stress in their lives and that many report lack of time as a reason they’re not doing more to manage their stress. During the holiday season, shopping sprees, family feuds, and Christmas wish lists can put extra stress on pocketbooks and wrist watches. Families First’s business Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has been providing confidential counseling to thousands of employees and other organizations since 1963. The EAP provides free short-term counseling, preventive education and referral services for employees and their immediate family members whose respective companies provide their employee assistance services through Families First.
This week’s blog is by Nancy Wesselink, PhD, Employee Assistance Program Manager at Families First and offers helpful tips for managing stress during the holidays. We hope that you find this information helpful. If you would like to learn more about Families First’s EAP Program, please visit our webpage. Have a great holiday season!
Kim Anderson, Families First CEO
Although it’s easy to envision a marvelous, relaxed holiday season full of pageantry, positivity, and perfect pies, this is not what the splendor of the season always delivers. For many, this time of year is the most stressful.
If you feel stressed out by the thought of holiday chores, obligations, and the clan dropping in for a spell—or if this year’s circumstances make the holiday season difficult, for whatever reason,—start preparations now to manage your holiday stress.
Along with good tidings come high expectations based on the commercialization of the holiday season, past childhood memories we may long to duplicate, and the expectations of others. If family members count on your “holiday magic” to make every year special—the cooking, cleaning, baking, decorating, and gift-wrapping—you likely face a bigger challenge letting go or finding balance.
Here’s how to cope better with expectations, demands, and added pressure during the holidays:
It’s the Most Wonderful Decision of All
Make a decision to take charge and tackle holiday stress. This mentally prepares you to enjoy the time while facing demands of the season with better endurance.
My Favorite Things
Decide on your priorities to make the season meaningful. Did you miss the tour of homes last year because the neighbors next door had their open house on the same day? The idea here is to plan a few “non-negotiable” events for yourself.
There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays
What activities are important to you and your family this year? Seek to trim the “idea tree” to reduce stress from trying to fit it all in. A family meeting to gather ideas can work; chances are activities you thought everyone still wanted are no longer of interest.
Decking the Halls
Are holiday lights on the house critical? If yes, go for it, but if it seems more like a “chore” than a pleasurable task, that’s a clue about its priority and importance to you. Activities that feel like chores get delayed. Pay attention to procrastination. It is insight to help you decide whether it’s thumbs up or down on something that seems desirable.
Blue, Blue Christmas
If the holidays are a sad time of year because of difficult memories or because a loved one can’t be there, create your own intervention strategy. Volunteering for a local charity is an interactive experience, and those who’ve tried it claim it works to lift one’s mood. You will likely feel empowered and more positive, and the experience of helping others anchors you to a memory that lasts.
Over the River and Through the Woods
If you can’t avoid holiday gatherings with family members who are the source of feuds and conflicts, try discussing with kin your desire to avoid conflict. Be up front and ask that differences be set aside. Older adults criticizing teenagers is a famous trigger. So are statements from in-laws that appear critical, interfering, or meddlesome. Self-awareness is power, so you stand a good chance of at least minimizing this behavior.
Silent Night
Know what improves your mood—exercise, positive affirmations, alone time? During the year, have you been promising to do something for yourself, but keep putting it off? Do it now. The holiday season is a perfect time to reaffirm your love, not only for those you care about but also for yourself.
And finally:
How Your EAP Can Help
Holiday stress affects everyone differently, so suggestions here may not match what’s unique for you. Don’t face the stress alone. Instead, talk to your Families First Employee Assistance Program. We can help you find the resilience and strength you need to face any challenge the holidays may bring.
Call us day or night – 404-853-2823
Also, if you do not have an Employee Assistance Program, call the Families First main number 404-853-2844. We are here to help!
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