If you're feeling overwhelmed during this festive season, rest assured that you are not the only one experiencing this, and here's the explanation behind it.

 

During the holiday season, which is typically associated with joy, gatherings, celebrations, and warmth, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience a significant amount of stress. Sleepopolis, a research organization, conducted a comprehensive survey involving more than 1,000 American adults to analyze their holiday wellness habits. The results revealed several interesting factors that contribute to the stress experienced by Americans during this time of year.

According to Harvard Medical School, the increase in responsibilities during the holiday season causes the brain's prefrontal cortex to go into overdrive, leading to heightened stress levels. The survey conducted by Sleepopolis highlighted some key findings:

1. Around 80% of Americans reported feeling increased stress due to the expectations and events associated with the holidays. Additionally, nearly 28.2% stated that they experience a decrease in sleep during this period.

2. Financial issues emerged as the primary cause of stress for almost half of Americans during the holidays. Interestingly, in Sleepopolis' 2021 survey, only 28% identified financial concerns as their top holiday stressor.

3. A significant number of Americans, approximately one in four, expressed a strong interest in participating in Dry January this year.

4. More than 50% of Americans have plans to travel and visit friends and family during the holiday season. Interestingly, a majority of them prefer staying in hotels rather than being guests in their loved ones' homes.

In addition to the Sleepopolis survey, a book published in 2012 titled "Family Tourism: Multidisciplinary Perspectives" shed light on another crucial aspect contributing to the heightened stress levels during the holidays. The book emphasized the pressure individuals feel to create the "perfect holiday," which is often influenced by societal expectations and idealized notions of contemporary parenting. This pressure can lead to increased feelings of guilt and stress, particularly among mothers, as achieving the idealized concept of family togetherness can be challenging.

In conclusion, while the holiday season is undoubtedly a time of joy and celebration, it is important to acknowledge that it can also be a source of significant stress for many individuals. Understanding the factors that contribute to this stress can help individuals find effective ways to manage and alleviate it, ensuring a more enjoyable and fulfilling holiday experience.