LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — The holiday season, while filled with joy and celebration, can also bring about significant stress as individuals juggle various responsibilities.
Dr. Mason Turner from Intermountain Health highlights the importance of self-care during this busy time.
He advises finding quiet moments for oneself and emphasizes the importance of saying “no” to certain social obligations to maintain personal well-being.
Turner also suggests techniques such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation to help manage stress, noting that even children can benefit from these practices.
For kids, holiday stress may stem from comparisons with peers over gifts.
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Turner recommends open communication, reminding parents that love doesn’t require extravagant spending, and suggests taking breaks from social media to avoid feelings of exclusion.
For those dealing with grief, Turner acknowledges that holiday rituals can trigger feelings of loss.
He encourages individuals to grieve openly and to choose activities that they have the energy for, reassuring them that “people still love us even if we don’t meet all their expectations.”
Finally, Turner stresses the importance of reaching out for support.
“Talk to someone,” he said, whether it be family, friends, or a professional.
Resources are available, and individuals are not alone in navigating holiday stress.