Reducing Holiday Stress

While the Holiday Season is often looked forward to with excitement and anticipation, unrealistic expectations, commitments or even indulgences can bring stress that can zap our joy. Results of this stress can cause frustration, irritability, disappointment or even guilt. Sometimes the upcoming Holiday season may be a source of dread due to loneliness, unresolved conflict, or recent losses. Many experts agree on some basic techniques to help you cope. Those often include selfcare ideas like monitoring healthy eating, drinking and sleeping habits; making time for exercise and meditation, volunteering or reaching out to others who may be lonely or in need. Additionally, establishing priorities and boundaries for yourself and your family that help you stay within a budget to reduce financial stress or allow you to say no to commitments that stretch your time and resources aid in reducing holiday stress.

For more specific tips and in-depth suggestions visit the link to the American Psychological Association (APA) Holiday Stress Resource Center https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/holiday. For a variety of mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises visit the Dartmouth College website https://students.dartmouth.edu/wellness-center/wellness-mindfulness/mindfulness-meditation/guided-recordings

If you are concerned about your own mental health, a coworker or loved one, reach out to the MAF Employee Assistance Program Office.

Porter Pryor is available at 228-363-4910 or by email at porter.j.pryor@nasa.gov.  Additional resources at  Health 4 Life – Home (sharepoint.com)

Publish Date: November 2022