A recent survey conducted by the American Heart Association (AHA) reveals an intriguing aspect of the holiday season: it’s more stressful for many people than tax season.
The survey, part of the AHA’s Healthy for Good™ initiative, was conducted in December 2023 and involved 1,000 adults across the United States.
According to the findings, a significant 63% of participants view the holiday season as more stressful compared to tax season.
The holidays, often idealized as ‘the most wonderful time of the year’, turn out to be a period of heightened stress for many. This stress stems from balancing work, family, finances, and the added pressure of festive events.
A striking 71% of respondents admitted that their biggest regret each holiday season is not taking enough time to relax and enjoy themselves.
The aftermath of the holiday stress is also noteworthy, with most people taking weeks to de-stress post-holidays. Mothers, in particular, reported that it takes them a month or more to recover.
Glenn N. Levine, M.D., FAHA, a volunteer and writing committee chair of the AHA’s 2021 statement on Psychological Health, Well-Being, and the Mind-Heart-Body Connection, emphasizes the importance of managing chronic stress.
Unchecked, chronic stress can have detrimental effects on both mental and physical health. During the holidays, it’s easy to postpone healthy habits, but maintaining them is crucial for long-term health.
To help manage holiday stress, the American Heart Association suggests several simple yet effective strategies:
- Eat Smart: Focus on reasonable portions and include colorful fruits and vegetables in your meals. It’s more about adding healthy options rather than strictly avoiding certain foods.
- Move More: Physical activity is an excellent stress reliever. Aim for a short walk each day, as any amount of movement is beneficial.
- Sleep Well: Quality sleep affects mood, eating habits, memory, and more. Try setting an alarm to remind yourself to wind down and silence phone notifications.
- Connect with Others: The holiday season is a time for connection. If you or a loved one starts feeling stressed, it’s important to communicate and support each other. This can help lighten the mood and make the holidays more enjoyable.
In conclusion, while the holiday season can be stressful, adopting simple healthy habits can make a significant difference.
The American Heart Association’s survey sheds light on the commonality of holiday stress and provides practical advice for managing it, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable holiday experience for all.
If you care about wellness, please read studies about how ultra-processed foods and red meat influence your longevity, and why seafood may boost healthy aging.
For more information about wellness, please see recent studies that olive oil may help you live longer, and vitamin D could help lower the risk of autoimmune diseases.
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