Peace, Joy, and... Pressure? How to Relieve Holiday Stress

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted December 8, 2024

The holiday season is upon us, bringing twinkling lights, good cheer, and… stress?

If you’re feeling more frazzled than festive, you’re not alone.

A recent American Psychological Association (APA) poll reveals a startling reality about our collective holiday experience.

We often paint the holidays as a picture-perfect time of joy and togetherness. But for many, the reality is far more complicated.

The APA’s poll sheds light on a hidden epidemic of holiday stress affecting millions of Americans.

Here are the eye-opening stats:

• A whopping 89 percent of U.S. adults report feeling stress during the holidays.
• 41 percent say their stress levels actually increase compared to other times of the year.
• For 43 percent of people, this stress interferes with their ability to enjoy the season.
• 36 percent feel like the holidays have become a competition.

So, what’s behind all this yuletide tension? The top stress-inducing culprits are financial pressure, finding the right gift, and missing family or loved ones.

But before you say “Bah, humbug!” and cancel Christmas, there’s hope.

Despite its challenges, the holiday season can be an opportunity to boost our well-being. Here are some science-backed strategies to help you navigate the season with more joy and less stress:

• Set a Realistic Budget: Financial worries top the list of holiday stressors. Create a budget that reflects your actual means, not your Pinterest-perfect dreams. Remember, it’s the thought that counts, not the price tag.
• Embrace Mindful Gift-Giving: Instead of stressing over finding the “perfect” gift, focus on thoughtful, personalized presents. Consider homemade gifts or shared experiences that create lasting memories.
• Connect Meaningfully: For those missing loved ones, find ways to honor their memory or connect virtually. Create new traditions that bridge the distance.
• Practice Self-Care: Don’t let your own needs fall by the wayside. Maintain your sleep schedule, eat nutritious meals, and make time for exercise or relaxation.
• Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to invitations or requests that overwhelm you. Prioritize the activities and people that truly matter to you.
• Focus on Traditions: Engage in meaningful holiday traditions or create new ones. These rituals can provide a sense of comfort and continuity.
• Volunteer: Helping others can boost your mood and provide perspective. Consider donating time or resources to a local charity.
• Practice Gratitude: Take time each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for. This simple practice can shift your focus from stress to appreciation.

Remember to take care of yourself, too: get quality sleep, eat as healthy as possible between the holiday treats, and try to get some exercise.

So, this season, give yourself the gift of a stress-free holiday.

P.S. Five cortisol calmers SLASH stress NATURALLY.

Source:

2023 Holiday Stress Survey Data Topline, American Psychological Association, apa. org

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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