Ashley Holford a Medical Social Worker at Trinity Health spoke with Good Morning Grand Haven. Hear the interview below.
By: Carrie Mull, DNP RN, administrative director of behavioral health at Trinity Health in West Michigan
The holiday season often brings joy and excitement, but it can also be a source of stress due to financial pressures, family dynamics, and social obligations. It’s common to feel overwhelmed, but with the right strategies, you can enjoy a fulfilling and balanced season.
Carrie Mull, DNP, RN, administrative director of behavioral health at Trinity Health in West Michigan, provides insights into managing stress and taking care of mental health.
Understanding Holiday Stressors
The holidays bring unique challenges, often amplifying emotions and introducing extra stressors. For some, it’s a time of loneliness or grief, especially for those who have experienced loss or are separated from loved ones. For others, complex family dynamics can lead to tension. During this time, we tend to place high expectations on ourselves and others, which aren’t always achievable — and that’s okay.
Financial stress is another key challenge. 58% of adults in the United States report feeling financial strain due to spending pressures, often heightened by expectations around gift-giving.
Social obligations add another layer of stress. The pressure to attend gatherings, fulfill every invitation, and meet others’ expectations can lead to burnout and emotional exhaustion.
Recognizing Signs of Holiday Stress
It’s important to stay alert for signs of stress during the holiday season. Notice changes in sleep patterns, increased irritability, withdrawal from social activities, or loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy.
Holiday stress can disrupt daily routines, affect work performance, and strain relationships. By knowing your baseline patterns and emotions, you’ll be better equipped to recognize when something is off.
Effective Strategies for Managing Holiday Stress
While holiday stress may seem unmanageable, there are practical strategies that can make a big difference:
· Set Realistic Expectations: The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be enjoyable. Setting realistic expectations can help reduce stress and make celebrations feel more meaningful.
· Budget and Plan: Create a holiday budget to manage expenses and prioritize experiences over expensive gifts.
· Maintain Healthy Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to events or activities that feel too overwhelming. Prioritize your well-being and activities that are restorative and uplifting.
· Manage Family Dynamics: Set clear boundaries with family members and have a plan for managing conflict or difficult conversations.
· Practice Self-Care: Maintain regular self-care routines, such as exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep, even during the holiday hustle. Taking care of yourself physically will help keep stress in check.
· Incorporate Mindfulness and Relaxation: Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga help you stay grounded. Practicing gratitude by reflecting on positive moments from the year can also shift your focus and improve your mood.
Most importantly, seek support when you need it. Open up to trusted friends or family members about how you’re feeling. Talking about your emotions can be a big relief and help you feel less alone.
The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and reflection. By managing stress and taking steps to support your mental well-being, you can experience a more fulfilling and enjoyable season.
If the stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide valuable tools and support. Trinity Health offers both inpatient and outpatient mental health services.
Visit TrinityHealthMi.org/BehavioralHealth to learn more about Behavioral and Mental Health Services. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 or text HOME to 741741 for help
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