The holiday season is often a time of joy, celebration, and connection with loved ones. But for many, it can also be a source of stress, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions. Whether it’s managing family dynamics, juggling work with personal obligations, or feeling the weight of unmet expectations, the holiday season can stir up a lot of pressure.
If you find yourself feeling more stressed than festive, it’s essential to prioritize your mental health. Luckily, some tools can help. One of the most effective is EMDR, a powerful therapeutic approach that can help you process overwhelming feelings and restore emotional balance.
Tips for Destressing During the Holidays
1. Set Realistic Expectations
The holidays can sometimes feel like a pressure cooker of perfectionism. From the ideal holiday meal to the perfect family gathering, an overwhelming desire exists to create an “Instagram-worthy” holiday. However, the more you push for perfection, the more stress it can generate.
Set realistic expectations for yourself and those around you. Understand that it’s okay if things aren’t flawless—what matters most is the quality time spent together, not the perfection of the decorations or dinner.
2. Create a Self-Care Routine
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, it can be easy to forget your needs. However, self-care is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Whether sleeping well, walking in nature, meditating, or journaling, make time for activities that help you relax and recharge.
3. Manage Your Time Wisely
The holidays can quickly fill up with social events, shopping, and family commitments. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, try to plan your schedule ahead of time. Prioritize what’s essential, and be okay with saying “no” to invitations or activities that seem too much. Learning to set boundaries is key to preserving your peace of mind.
4. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of staying present in the moment, which can be incredibly helpful for reducing anxiety. During busy holidays, practice mindfulness by focusing on breathing, taking deep breaths, or simply paying attention to your surroundings. Grounding yourself in the present can help you stay calm and reduce overwhelming feelings.
5. Reach Out for Support
If you feel stressed or anxious, don’t be afraid to lean on friends, family, or a therapist with AlphaMind Counseling Centers in Cary, NC. The holidays can sometimes bring up feelings of loneliness, grief, and isolation or activate PTSD symptoms. Talking through your emotions with someone who understands can make all the difference. Our appointments can be done in the Cary office or virtually throughout North Carolina.
