Christmas (and the general holiday season) is a time filled with warmth, joy, and celebration. Sadly, it often comes with a hidden side that isn’t as widely discussed: the amount of stress it brings. While it’s a season of celebration, it also tends to be one of the most demanding periods for many people. This is my first Christmas with a job, and it’s so much more complicated compared to every other one I’ve had. I’m expected to get friends gifts, work during the break, celebrate with family, help prepare Christmas dinner, and enjoy it all at the same time? No amount of candy canes and cheap advent calendar chocolate could’ve prepared me for this. Let’s see how stressful Christmas can be for the average person.

Money

With the economy being really bad right now, the holiday season gives a lot of anxiety when it comes to money. Financial pressure is a significant stressor during the holidays, with many feeling the need to overspend. Statistics show that around 45% of Americans report that finances are a source of stress during the holidays. The pressure to participate in gift-giving, decorate, and host family gatherings often strains budgets.

Stress Bleeding into Physical Health

A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association showed that nearly 38% of people feel an increased level of stress during the holiday season. Factors contributing to this stress range from money to the pressure of finding the perfect gift for loved ones. Additionally, approximately 68% of people feel the pressure to maintain their regular routines along with holiday preparations. The stress isn’t just emotional, it also affects physical health. It’s reported that 62% of people have headaches as a result of holiday stress and 44% experiencing fatigue.

Social Gatherings

If you already struggle with social anxiety I’m sure the holidays aren’t your favorite. Having to talk to an aunt you haven’t seen since you were 5 and having a conversation with your crazy uncle isn’t something anyone looks forward to. The social expectations and demands during this time also contribute to heightened stress levels. Nearly 53% of people report feeling pressure to attend social gatherings or events, even if they’re already feeling overwhelmed.

Interviews

I decided to ask some people if the holiday season is a stressful time. This is what they had to say:

Beth C.- “It definitely is. It’s hard to find the time to find good gifts that also don’t make me go broke. At the end of the day I feel like the stress isn’t so bad. At the end of the day when I see us all of my family together makes all of it worth it.”.

Cameron H.- “Not really, I feel like people take it really seriously. I only get my family and really close friends gifts so I don’t worry too much about money. I also don’t get insulted it people don’t get me gifts cause I get it. People just need to chill out with the holidays. It’s supposed to be a time to relax, not stress.”.

Aryana V.- “I would say yes more then no. I have a lot of people I want to get gifts for and I just don’t have the time or money to do all of that. Like they weren’t acting like this before I got a job. Not only that but I feel like I’m now expected to get most of my own gifts myself. I just try not to stress out and enjoy myself in the moment.”.

Final Thoughts

In the midst of hot cocoa and the 4th Mariah Carey Christmas song, it’s important to acknowledge that Christmas is a time of stress for many. From financial strain to social obligations, the pressures associated with the season can take a toll on mental and physical health. I think its important to remember to be mindful of those around us who may be silently battling the stress that often comes with the festive season. It’s a time not just for celebration, but for understanding, empathy, and support.