Christmas is traditionally a time for families to be together and to enjoy good food, drink and gift-giving. However, for many reasons it can also be a stressful period, and it's a good idea to be prepared for this and take measures to minimise the impact of stress, as it can affect your health and ability to cope.
Credit Crunch Christmas
The current 'credit crunch' or recession could cause anxiety about how to afford suitable Christmas presents for family and friends. Here are some ideas on reducing financial stress:
- Make some of your own presents, perhaps together
- Look out for deals like '3 for the price of 2'
- Shop around on discount websites
- Have a 'Secret Santa' gift-giving deal at the Christmas gathering, where there is an upper limit on what everyone can spend and no-one knows who gave what.
- Share the cost of the Christmas meal by getting family members to each contribute one element, such as the turkey or dessert.
For alternative, non-commercial ways to celebrate this time of year without breaking the bank, see Celebrating Winter Solstice.
Setting Clear Boundaries at Christmas
A common issue around Christmas time is who to spend it with: there may be pressure from different sides of the family, making the choice difficult. Or, perhaps there is a desire to simply spend a quiet Christmas without the big family dinner.
With people-pleasing tendencies, it can be a struggle to stick to your guns about what kind of Christmas this will be. Set clear boundaries, for example decide whether this Christmas will be low-key or fun, be sure not to say 'yes' when you really want to say 'no', and of course, set limits on how much money to spend - and stick to them.
Relaxation Techniques to Relieve Stress
There are many ways to relax the body and mind - and one of them is not sitting in front of the television or computer screen. The technique of progressive relaxation has been proven to be effective in relieving stress. Make sure you will be undisturbed for a period of time, lie down wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, take a few deep breaths, and systematically tense, then relax all your muscles.
Herbal Remedies for Stress Relief
Some good remedies are Ginseng, Aloe Vera, Evening Primrose and Goldenseal. According to Heather Haapoja's Herbal Remedies For Stress, Kava-Kava is an effective anti-anxiety herb, and chamomile tea is also soothing and stress-relieving.
Ideally see a herbalist before taking a course of herbal remedies. Check that they do not counteract or interact negatively with any prescribed medication, and are safe, particularly if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Loneliness at Christmas
Those who are far away from family or have no living family members present, may well find Christmas a lonely time. Homeless people, old people in convalescence homes, and hospital patients are particularly vulnerable to loneliness.
Here are some ideas to combat loneliness:
- Plan a special day on Christmas, for example watching a favourite film or making a special meal.
- Invite other people at a loose end for a meal.
- Spend the day helping others, for example at a shelter.
- Find out about organised Christmas lunches or days out.
Get Help if Affected By Alcohol and Drug Addiction
Alcoholism and drug addiction can become particularly severe around the festive season. Alcohol is usually very much part of the festivities, and stress can make problem drinkers more susceptible. Al-Anon, part of the same fellowship as Alcoholics Anonymous, is a non-profit organisation that has meetings all around the world, where people with alcoholic relatives or friends can share their problems and support each other.
This article is not intended as medical advice for stress-related problems. If you have concerns about your mental health, please see a medical professional.
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