Holiday Stress Surges: Experts Urge Calm Amid Shopping Frenzy

UPDATE: As the holiday shopping season kicks off, stress levels are climbing, prompting experts to share urgent strategies for managing anxiety. Shoppers flocked to Target in Fresno, California, early Friday morning, eager to snag deals on popular items like AirPods and Beats headphones.

However, this bustling time can also lead to overwhelming stress. Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist Coraline Robinson from Balance Treatment Center warns that high expectations can lead to disappointment. “When we have high expectations, what happens? They can only go down,” Robinson stated.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, a staggering 28% of Americans reported increased holiday-related stress last year. Major stressors include gift buying, family dynamics, and grief. With the holiday season officially here, it’s crucial for individuals to prioritize their mental well-being.

Robinson recommends setting boundaries and taking essential breaks to mitigate stress. “Taking a few deep breaths, finding a private room,” she emphasized. “It’s really important when we’re under stress with our families.”

In addition to mental strategies, physical activity plays a vital role in stress management. “We want to depress our nervous systems,” Robinson advised. “By ramping it up with exercise, we can enter family gatherings calm and collected.”

Nutrition is also key during this hectic time. Robinson suggests monitoring alcohol and sugar intake to help maintain lower stress levels. She warns that the pressure to spend during the holidays can be intense, saying, “There’s going to be a lot of pushing, marketing, and different things online right now.”

Robinson encourages taking breaks from the holiday hustle, recommending activities like listening to audiobooks or podcasts to find mental relief. “It’s okay to step back and give yourself some grace,” she said.

As shoppers prepare for the rush, experts stress the importance of managing expectations and taking proactive steps to reduce stress. The holiday season should be about joy, not anxiety.

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