New Year, Healthy You.Stress Management That Works

The holiday season is usually seen as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. However, anxiety, stress, and depression can also increase during this time. While some people feel happiness and connection, others face emotional struggles. The pressure to buy gifts, host parties, or travel can be financially draining, leading to feelings of inadequacy, worry, and financial stress. Many feel pressured to meet high social expectations, such as attending events, organizing gatherings, or creating a perfect holiday. Balancing work, family duties, shopping, and travel often leaves little time for self-care or relaxation, leading to burnout and increased stress.

For family caregivers who have lost loved ones, the holidays can become a time of sadness, pain, or anger. If you’ve lost someone, you might wonder how to cope with your grief during this season. This might be your first holiday without that loved one. Holidays can remind us painfully of what we’ve lost, bringing back memories of good times with loved ones who are no longer here. While many look forward to the holidays, you may feel dread. Be kind to yourself, especially if your loss is recent. If celebrating doesn’t feel right, it’s okay not to.

For those who are single, far from family, or dealing with strained relationships, the holidays can deepen feelings of loneliness and exclusion. Social gatherings might feel overwhelming or make you feel like an outsider. Social media can worsen these feelings, as people often post only the highlights of their celebrations, leading to unfair comparisons. The pressure to make everything "perfect" can trigger or deepen anxiety. Concerns about family conflicts, travel, or meal prep can create constant worry. For some, family gatherings can also bring unresolved issues, judgment, or past trauma, intensifying anxiety.

Learning to say no to overcommitment and setting realistic expectations can ease stress. Prioritize rest, relaxation, and activities that bring you joy or peace, like exercise, reading, or creative hobbies, to help balance emotional strain. Talking to friends, family, or a mental health professional can lessen stigma and offer support. Support groups or therapy are also helpful options. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can help manage anxiety and stress. Taking time for quiet reflection or journaling can also bring relief. Let’s be compassionate to those going through hard times during the holidays.

Join us on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 7 pm for our monthly 45-minute “Let’s Talk” Caregivers’ Support and Information Zoom. "New Year, Healthy You. Stress Management That Works." Featuring dynamic speaker Cheya Thousand, Coach, Author, and Public Speaker. You’re just a click away. Click the link at www.comeoutreach.org on December 18th at 7 pm to be directed to the meeting.