(NewsNation) — The holidays are meant to be a time for celebration and family gatherings, but studies show that many Americans suffer from decreased mental wellness during this period.
A 2021 study from the National Alliance on Mental Illness found 60% of Americans feel their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Sheryl Zeigler told NewsNation the holiday blues arise during the “intense” two-month period leading up to Christmas, where many Americans are “overspending” and “overconsuming.”
Zeigler explained that parents may be extra sensitive to stress around the holidays as they juggle work responsibilities, caring for kids on break from school and setting up holiday festivities.
Zeigler believes that taking care of yourself should always be a priority and that many people, “mostly women,” have been socialized to believe that placing your own needs first is “selfish.”
“And that’s really a narrative we’re trying to change because this comes at the cost of women’s physical and mental health,” she added.
Tips to make the holidays more enjoyable
While the holidays are in full swing, Zeigler suggests carving out time each night to address personal needs.
“Carve out 20 minutes a night to take a bath, or even just to take a really long shower, or make it to that workout class,” she suggests.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides several “tips for avoiding the holiday blues,” including:
- Sticking to routines
- Getting adequate sleep
- Consuming in moderation
- Exercising
- Setting reasonable expectations
- Budgeting
- Listening to music
