Thursday, December 29, 2022

Holiday Anxiety

 

Why do people get so anxious and depressed around the holidays when it’s supposed to be a time for family, good friends, and fun?

Holidays are meant to be a time for family, close friends, and fun. A break in routine routines. Enter expectations: your own as well as those of others. Those who live on social media and compare themselves to what others say they are doing, can end up in a world of hurt. They may be prompted to engage in activities they never expected, spend more money than planned, give too many presents, have too many parties, and agonize over too many fancy decorations and huge spreads of food. Anxiety is part of the emotion of fear—perhaps from feeling not being good enough. Depression is part of the emotion of sadness—perhaps from a sense of failing to meet expectations. Slow down. Relax with your family and close friends. Breathe. Negotiate using reality checks. Choose to stop competing, overspending, and overeating. Have fun! Be refreshed.

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