Help with Holiday Stress

Holiday stress is something most parents experience every year. At the sight of the first Christmas tree decorations in stores in early November, parents may feel a sense of dread and anxiety rather than joyful anticipation. What is causing this anxiety and what can we do about it?

For many parents, the top cause of holiday stress is wondering where to get the money to buy gifts. Parents may feel anxious about credit card debt or the constant barrage of advertisements for expensive toys on TV. Expectations surrounding gift giving may extend to distant relatives and friends. It’s sometimes hard to admit that you simply can’t afford to be extravagant, especially when from your perspective it may appear that everyone else can.

Be honest with your kids about lowering their expectations. This is a great opportunity to discuss responsible spending and to discuss the value of money. It’s also ok to set boundaries and let people outside your family know that you can’t afford – or choose not to – exchange gifts this year.

Another cause of anxiety may be housecleaning or decorating chores to prepare for extra company. When you start to feel overwhelmed, break down tasks into smaller pieces and don’t try to do them all at once. Be sure to delegate tasks so that each family member is responsible for a task. It may be helpful to make lists ahead of time so you don’t feel anxious about what you might forget. Also consider whether there is anything you can eliminate. Are there parties or gatherings you’re going to, not because you want to, but out of a sense of obligation? Would the world really stop if you didn’t go?

Shopping is another stressor. Shopping online or from catalogs can help reduce the stress of fighting crowds while shopping. Browsing multiple stores from your couch or kitchen table is a lot easier than fighting for parking places and standing in line.

Remember to take care of yourself. We all have a tendency to overeat during the holidays. Be careful not to let stress eating get out of control.

The holidays can be overwhelming and exhausting, but they are also a great time to reconnect with people. Schedule some activities to nurture yourself, whether that is church or musical events or plays.

Attitude has a lot to do with whether you can cope with holiday stress. Some irritability is normal, but don’t blow things out of proportion. Take life one day at a time. Look for the peace and joy in the holiday season wherever you can find it.

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