The holidays are meant to be a joyful time but with extra layers of stress this year, like the rise in inflation, psychologists say keeping an eye on your mental health is important.
Dr. Melanie Longhurst is a licensed psychologist and assistant professor at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
She said that this year, the holiday season could take a toll on people's mental health.
“I think a lot of people are stressed out for various reasons,” said Longhurst.
She said the holidays, for many, are the most difficult time of the year when it comes to mental health.
The American Psychiatric Association says 41 percent of Americans reported that their stress levels increased during the holidays.
Meantime, high costs of food and gifts could also cause financial stress.
“When we are trying to show that we care for people through gifts of some kind or trying to score that perfect deal, that can be very stressful,” said Longhurst.
She said creating a budget is one of the best ways to stay on track with your spending and reduce stress.
“One of them is creating a budget and trying to stay within our financial means. Recognizing that if you can’t afford that, why add more stress to yourself and just come up with a different way of showing and exchanging a gift,” said Longhurst.
Longhurst's said it isn’t just stress that happens during this time of the year, depression is also common.
“Grief, loss, joy, sadness, it can really be a lot of mixed feelings, loneliness and recognizing your feeling and asking for what you need,” said Longhurst.
Dr. Angel Marcelo Rodregiez-Chevres with Emergence Health Network said that validating and normalizing what you are feeling is important.
“We have to recognize that and raise your hand and say 'hey I need help' because there is help out there,” said Rodriguez-Chevres.
Experts also said sticking to healthy habits can decrease stress.
“Still trying to exercise, taking a break, listening to your body deep breathing and being aware of what you are eating so it’s not taking a toll on you,” said Longhurst.
Dr. Longhurst also said that planning ahead is important during this time of year to ease some of the stress.
Crisis Hotline Number
- Emergence Health Network 915-779-1800
- Toll-Free Crisis Hotline 1-877-562-6467
- Call or Text 988
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