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Privacy NoticeChristmas is meant to be the most wonderful time of the year, filled with joy and celebration. But we all know the truth – the festive season can also be extremely stressful. From financial pressure to family feuds, the never-ending to-do list and the high expectation – usually self-imposed – for everything to be absolutely perfect, Christmas time can leave many of us feeling overwhelmed. According to YouGov, a quarter of people say that Christmas makes their mental health worse, while a survey from the Mental Health Foundation found that 54% were worried about the mental health of someone they know at this time of year.
Christmas may be the season to be jolly, but it can be a stressful time of year
(Image: Getty)
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A poll by Skipton Building Society also revealed that three in 10 Brits claim their mental health takes a complete “nosedive” over the festive period, due to factors including money, entertaining guests and trying to keep others happy. Hypnotherapist and coach Chloe Brotheridge explains that if you’re feeling like this, you’re not alone. “Christmas, with its sparkle and cheer, can be a magical time, but let’s not forget, it can also stir up a whirlwind of stress and anxiety. It’s not uncommon for the festive season to trigger these feelings,” she says. “There’s the pressure to create the ‘perfect’ Christmas, the financial strain, the packed social calendar, and sometimes, the challenging family dynamics. It can be a lot!” Wellbeing coach Yasmeen Alsumait agrees, saying, “The holiday season often makes us feel like we are obliged to do more – splurge more, mingle more, and indulge more. All that extra activity can really send our stress levels soaring, so it’s super helpful to have a game plan in order to avoid this as much as we can.” Here, we share some top tips to help you have a happier and healthier Christmas this year…
Chloe Brotheridge says that you’re not alone if you find Christmas overwhelming
(Image: Supplied)
Focus on what truly matters While we can all get caught up in trying to create the perfect Christmas, Chloe says it’s important to remember what this time of year means to you. She says, “Remember, perfection is a myth. Christmas is about joy and togetherness, not about outdoing yourself or others. Focus on what truly matters, rather than an idealised version of the holidays.” Yasmeen, founder of Healthy Living (@healthylivingbyyasmeen), adds, “Everyone’s Christmas is different. Embrace the imperfection and remember that sometimes the most unexpected occurrences make the best stories.” Take time for yourself “Feeling drained? You’re not alone,” says Chloe, who is also an expert on high- functioning anxiety (calmer-you.com) and the author of The Anxiety Solution. “Amid the festive frenzy, it’s crucial to take a breather. Carve out some ‘me-time’ to relax and recharge. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a brisk walk, or getting lost in a good book.”
Yasmeen Alsumait says that we should embrace imperfect during the festive season
(Image: Supplied)
And when it comes to family time, it’s good to seek balance. “Yes, family gatherings are a big part of the season, but it’s also important to respect your own needs,” she continues. “Don’t feel guilty for needing space.” It’s OK to say no With office parties and get-togethers with friends on the horizon, social calendars can quickly fill up during the festive period. But make sure you don’t overdo it. “It’s perfectly fine to leave gaps in your diary. You don’t have to attend every event. Learning to say no can be empowering,” Chloe says. “People will understand if you can’t make it to everything. If you struggle to say no to someone’s face, tell them that you’ll check your diary and come back to them. This will buy you time to formulate your no.” Agree to disagree If your family is prone to rifts at Christmas, there are ways to manage it. “First, make sure the family schedule is realistic,” Yasmeen says. “Set achievable goals for what you want to accomplish, keep certain family members apart as much as possible and plan fun activities outside the home. A change of scenery always brightens people’s moods.” Chloe advises, “Approach sensitive topics with empathy and understanding. And remember, it’s absolutely fine to step away from a heated conversation.”
Finding different ways to manage our feelings is a great way of combatting any stress over Christmas
(Image: GETTY)
Plan your shopping Retail therapy isn’t for everyone but it can be made easier, Yasmeen says. “Set a tight spending budget with a realistic time frame and spread out the shopping. No need to cram it all into one day. Take it easy and enjoy picking out those gifts.” Chloe adds, “Try to head to the shops early in the day when it’s less busy and your energy levels are higher.” Do things that bring you joy Christmas isn’t a happy time for everyone, and if you’re dreading it, that’s fine. “It’s OK not to be swept up in the festive spirit,” Chloe says. Instead, you can make a list of things that bring you joy and try to include them in your day. Find small ways to nurture yourself and seek professional help if you need it. Remember, it’s just a few weeks, and it’s fine to look forward to the calm of the new year.” Yasmeen agrees. “It’s OK to skip Christmas. Remember, it’s all about what makes you happiest. Go easy on yourself!”Story SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterCommentMore OnChristmasHealth
