It is said that you should not pout or cry during the holidays. The pressure to be festive is so intense during the holiday season that anyone who fails to comply risks being branded a Grinch or a scrooge. In this economy, people feel pressure to buy lots of gifts, which, in turn, strains family relationships. Mental-health experts believe that all of them are valid.
Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky, a psychiatrist, said, “Just like some people like chocolate and others don’t, some people don’t like the things associated with the holidays.” Some people dislike the holiday noise and think it’s gaudy or obnoxious. It might be difficult for them to go out and about when it is cold.
These tips will help you cope with decking the halls this holiday season.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/New Africa
Get In Touch
There’s no need to have one silent night after another. Since the holidays are so focused on togetherness, people without a packed schedule may feel isolated and sad. Be open about it. If they didn’t realize you were available or interested before extending an invitation, they might not have thought to do so.
Defining Boundaries
Many people experience holiday stress because of strained family relationships. Varma suggests setting boundaries: Invite your mom to Thanksgiving, but only one-on-one, not with her new husband. It might be better to communicate with your family in a large group setting if you aren’t capable of dealing with your uncle’s political views. When you are worried your guests will expose a thorny personal matter, address it directly soon after they arrive.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/zeljkodan
Adapt To Travel Situations
“Say, ‘We’re not celebrating Christmas on December 25. The busiest time of the year can make travel a logistical nightmare. You can offer a compromise to your long-distance relatives if you don’t want to spend money on an expensive plane ticket at prime time. It will help you eliminate a significant source of stress and have something to look forward to.