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Published on December 08, 2023

Find your cheer: Five tips to reduce holiday stress

The holidays are marked by joyful adjectives. Words like “merry” and “jolly” become part of our regular lexicon.
Still, even though we may be saying—or singing— happy words doesn’t necessarily mean we’re feeling that way.

About nine of 10 U.S. adults, or roughly 89 percent, say that money concerns, missing loved ones and anticipating family conflicts cause them stress this time of year, according to a recent poll by the American Psychological Association. While some levels of stress appear to be common, 43 percent of U.S. adults said the stress of the holidays interferes with their ability to enjoy the season, according to the poll.

Paige WeaverBut there are simple steps that you can take to help reduce holiday stress.

“Make sure self care is on your holiday to-do list,” said Paige Weaver, a physician assistant at Tidelands Health Family Medicine at Murrells Inlet. “Maintaining your fitness routine, setting realistic expectations and a little planning are just a few steps you can take to help relieve stress and make the most of this wonderful holiday season.”

1. Stay healthy

Everything is harder when you’re not feeling well. Protect your health by doing your best to avoid illness – get vaccinated, wash your hands regularly and take other preventive measures. Although tempting, try to avoid excessive snacking and overeating, and keep up with your regular fitness routine.

2. Plan ahead

If you can, buy gifts and meal ingredients ahead of time. This will help you avoid last-minute dashes to packed stores, frantically searching for items on your list. Taking a little time up front to plan will save you from feeling a last-minute crunch.

3. Don’t attempt an Instagram-worthy holiday

Perfectionism is, perhaps, one of the biggest sources of stress during the holidays. Focus on the things that matter, such as the meaning of the holidays and memorable time spent with family and friends. A leaning Christmas tree or burned rolls are simply part of life. Learn to feel at ease with the ups and downs of the season, and you and your loved ones will enjoy happier holidays.

4. Ask for help

Don’t try to do everything yourself. Let your kids get more involved (even if they make mistakes along the way), and take advantage of a family member’s offer to cook some extra dishes for the holiday meal.

5. Focus on others

The best way to reduce holiday stress is to take your mind off your ever-growing holiday to-do list and find ways to make others’ holiday burdens lighter. Whether it’s helping an elderly relative with holiday shopping or collecting gifts for children who are less fortunate, helping others will boost your own emotional and mental well-being, while also helping you get into the true spirit of the holidays.

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Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.