The holidays can be a happy, joyous time when people get to take a bit of time off of work, gather with family and friends, and count their blessings. However, the lead-up to those big days often involves a significant amount of preparation and heightened stress levels while people balance their day-to-day responsibilities. If financial pressures and tense family dynamics are added to the mix, the impact on mental health can be significant.
The good news is you don’t have to just push through. Columbia Associates anxiety treatment services can offer the expert support you need to navigate the holidays and beyond with more enjoyment and mental well-being. Call Columbia at 703.682.8208 today for more information.
Feeling Holiday Stress Is Common
You’re not alone if the thought of the holidays is stressful. There are various triggers that contribute to worry. Likely, stressful thoughts come from:
- The financial strain of gift-giving
- The challenge of hosting or attending social gatherings
- Managing an irregular schedule that includes events that you or your children are expected to attend
- Having to engage in frustrating conversations with loved ones
These stressors, as well as others, can manifest in both mental and physical symptoms, such as anxiety, fatigue, and irritability. Understanding this can help you take proactive steps to help reduce your anxiety and find more delight in the season.
The Connection Between Gratitude and Anxiety
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to anxiety. In fact, one study showed that the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) were decreased by 7.76% across 579 patients.1
Feeling grateful or having an attitude of gratitude doesn’t always come naturally, especially when we’re going through difficult circumstances, but gratitude can be fostered. Dedicated practice through activities like keeping a gratitude journal or reflecting on daily blessings can be woven into your routine and significantly impact how you handle stress, decreasing feelings of anxiety.
By adopting gratitude practices and practical stress management techniques, you can reduce anxiety and enjoy the holidays more fully. However, if you need more support, it’s always available with Columbia Associates.
Practical Tips for Managing Holiday Anxiety
In addition to practicing gratitude, there are other ways to help manage anxiety this time of year. Consider these practical strategies:
- Plan ahead—Develop a doable schedule for holiday activities. Prioritize tasks and set aside time for relaxation to avoid burnout.
- Set realistic expectations – It’s okay to decline invitations when you’ve reached your limit. Say no to things that may be unreasonable or cause you an unhealthy level of stress.
- Practice relaxation techniques – Incorporate meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine to help maintain a sense of calm.
- Focus on self-care – Get adequate sleep, eat a balanced diet, and prioritize exercise to keep stress levels manageable.
As you make use of these tips, keep in mind the profound relationship between gratitude and anxiety, and make it a practice to think about, write, or say out loud the things you are grateful for. They can be as simple as expressing gratitude for the calm you feel when meditating, a well-balanced meal, or a good night of sleep. You’ll likely begin to feel a decrease in your anxiety levels as you consistently practice gratitude.
Call Columbia Associates Today for Anxiety Treatment
If managing holiday stress becomes overwhelming, Columbia Associates is here to help. We offer comprehensive anxiety treatment and a host of other mental health treatment options tailored to your individual needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support. For more information, call 703.682.8208 today.
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