During the holiday season, everything around us seems to be more intense and it's common for people to suffer from seasonal stress during this period. We also tend to put more expectations on ourselves and others. This can be daunting for many people, especially for those who struggle when dealing with stress.
Here we will take a closer look at what stress is, why the festive period can exacerbate symptoms of stress, and provide tips on coping during this season.
What is stress?
When our early ancestors perceived a threat, it would trigger their ‘fight or flight’ reaction. This would act as an aid to survival, and a way of managing change.
While the ‘fight or flight’ response we once relied on isn’t a necessity for survival in modern day life, our bodies still react in the following ways during times of heightened tension:
Our heart beats faster
Our breathing quickens
Our blood pressure increases
Our muscles become tense
Other common signs and symptoms of stress include:
Regular headaches
Unexplained stomach upset
Dizziness, palpitations, and visual changes
Insomnia and fatigue
Anger and impatience
Loss of confidence
Poor concentration
Procrastination
Tearfulness
Social withdrawal
Excessive worrying
While stress is a very normal and necessary response to certain situations, as it helps us to deal with challenges and particular environments, some of us differ in our capacities to deal with stress.
Why is the festive period stressful?
The festive period can be an extremely difficult time for those who struggle with stress, as it comes with numerous pressures and expectations including:
Buying the best gifts
Having ‘the perfect festive holiday
Organizing travel back to see family during a busy time
Socialising and spending money
Additional shopping, cleaning and cooking
Spending more time in close proximity to family members
Finishing work and completing projects before year end
As an expat, it’s normal to experience additional pressures from the implications of being away from family and spending the holidays away from home.
Coping With Holiday Stress
During stressful periods, it’s important to find safe outlets for emotions such as going for a run or walk, chatting to a friend, or other holiday stress relief techniques.
Below are some practical tips to help you manage your mental health during the holidays:
Prepare and plan out how your time is going to be shared
Try to avoid people-pleasing – it’s ok if you’re not able to do everything
Spread out your diary and hold some events in January – not everything has to take place in December
Organise, prioritise and set achievable goals
Share the load by allocating tasks - give other people responsibilities and let them help you
Set yourself a budget before the festive shopping and try to stick to it
Focus on the positives and celebrate the small achievements
Have a break from social media and don’t compare yourself to others
Open a window or go for a walk to get some fresh air
Do some exercise as this releases endorphins which will help you to relax
Seeking professional help
If you have been struggling with stress recently, it’s important to understand that you may need professional help. You don’t have to suffer alone. If you are worried, you can come directly to Aspris Wellbeing Centre Dubai. One of our consultant psychiatrists will be able to assess your symptoms, provide you with a diagnosis and recommend the best form of treatment for you to receive at our wellbeing centre.
If you would like to find out more information about treatment for stress at Aspris Wellbeing Centre Dubai, you can call us on (+971) 4 385 4493 to speak to one of our administrative team, in confidence, or submit an online enquiry form.