Navigating holiday stress
Discover how to recognize and handle your stress
For many, the conclusion of the year signifies a time of reflection and jubilation. We each possess our own cherished customs, often gathering with friends and family to concentrate on what truly matters with those we hold dear. The holiday season represents warmth, generosity, and unity. However, it can also become a source of tension.
We all encounter stress in our everyday lives. A certain level of challenge is beneficial. When that stress escalates, though, our well-being can start to decline. Our bodies signal us when we’re under pressure. If you’re feeling stressed, you might:
- Struggle to focus.
- Feel apprehensive and anxious.
- Experience a sense of being “on edge”—with clammy hands, racing heart, and tight muscles.
- Display irritability toward others.
- Feel fatigued.
These are not the sole indicators of stress, but they are prevalent ones. This holiday season, whether you’re traveling or playing host, preparing for celebrations or hunting for presents, remain aware of your emotions. The weight of responsibilities and expectations can transform even the most joyful events into stressful experiences.
If you do find yourself feeling stressed, there are constructive approaches to manage it, and VA is here to assist. There isn’t a singular method to deal with stress, as each individual and situation differs. Nevertheless, certain healthy habits can ease the process. You can talk with your VA care team about your stress and ways to manage it. They can help you devise a strategy and connect you with resources that can truly make a difference.
One such resource is the Manage Stress Workbook. It was created to aid Veterans in identifying and coping with stress. The Workbook features advice to monitor your stress, pinpoint its origins, and cultivate healthy habits. Engaging in mindfulness, staying physically active, and scheduling enjoyable activities can all contribute to stress management, and the Workbook includes tools to assist.
It’s vital to keep in mind that while you may not have control over the sources of your stress, you can influence how you respond to that stress. If you face stress during this holiday season, remember that you possess tools and channels to aid in managing it. This way, you can fully relish the traditions that hold significance for you alongside those you cherish most.
Additional information
VA’s National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention has a dedicated online platform for resources to help you identify and address stress. You can explore these tools on VA’s Manage Stress website.
The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 to provide confidential crisis support for Veterans and their families. To reach trained VA personnel, you can dial 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat online.
A healthy mind, body, and spirit can facilitate coping with stress. Visit the VA App Store for free applications designed to support your wellness throughout this holiday season and beyond.
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