Expert Insights on Managing Holiday Stress
December 15, 2024 - 18:54
John Martin, Ph.D., emphasizes that unrealistic expectations significantly contribute to stress during the holiday season. As families prepare for various celebrations, the pressure to create the perfect experience can lead to overwhelming feelings. Dr. Martin suggests that individuals should reassess their holiday goals and prioritize what truly matters to them, rather than succumbing to societal pressures.
One of the key strategies he recommends is setting realistic and achievable plans. This includes simplifying traditions and focusing on quality time with loved ones instead of extravagant celebrations. Additionally, Dr. Martin advises practicing mindfulness and self-care, which can help individuals maintain their emotional well-being amidst the hustle and bustle.
Another important aspect is open communication. Discussing feelings and expectations with family members can alleviate misunderstandings and foster a supportive environment. By acknowledging that not everything will go as planned, individuals can reduce anxiety and embrace the season with a more positive outlook. Ultimately, a balanced approach to the holidays can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
MORE NEWS
June 24, 2026 - 09:55
Can Food Improve Mood? UCSC Professor Explores Nutritional PsychologyA University of California, Santa Cruz professor is digging into a question many people have wondered about: can the food you eat really change how you feel? Andrea Cook, a faculty member at UCSC,...
June 23, 2026 - 23:30
Psychology says people who constantly lose their handkerchiefs aren't forgetful, their brains may be overwNew research in cognitive psychology suggests that repeatedly misplacing a handkerchief is not a sign of a failing memory. Instead, it may indicate that a person`s brain is operating under a high...
June 23, 2026 - 11:50
Psychological traits may uncover why Alzheimer’s biology differs between patientsA new study suggests that stable personality traits like neuroticism and loneliness may be tied to specific molecular subtypes of Alzheimer`s disease, offering a deeper look into why the disease...
June 22, 2026 - 17:26
Psychology suggests that people who fear AI are often not only afraid of the technology itself — they’re afraid of what it threatens to erase: the status, competence, identity, and sense of usefulness they spent years building.In late 2024, the Pew Research Center surveyed more than 5,000 employed Americans and found that 52 percent were worried about how AI might be used in their workplaces. That number alone is...