The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, love, and celebration, but for many the days that follow bring a period of overwhelming stress and anxiety. Now that the New Year is upon us it’s essential to acknowledge the emotional challenges that come with this time of year.

Holiday stress can stem from various sources, but most come from financial pressures, unrealistic expectations, family dynamics, grief, and overcommitment. Recognizing these stressors is the first step in managing them. Take a moment to reflect on what specifically causes you stress during the holidays.

Decide what matters most and let go of the rest. It’s okay to say no to events or activities that drain your energy.

Anticipate potential issues and create a plan to tackle them. Set a budget, make a schedule, and prioritize tasks. Take care of your body, prioritize sleep, hydration, and exercise. Even a short walk can help clear your mind. Focus on the present moment and let go of worries about the past or future.

Learn to say no and set healthy limits with others. Reflect on the things you’re thankful for each day. Engage in physical activities that bring you joy.

Prioritize rest and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

Politics can significantly contribute to stress, especially following holidays when financial pressure and tensions run high. One commentator recently said the best way to manage stress is to turn off the TV and cell phones. Most everything today is about politics and if you let it, it can cause extreme emotional stress. The thought of losing health insurance, higher prices at the grocery store, the economy overall and foreign relations, is enough to drive anyone to the limit. Differing views can strain relationships and create anxiety.

Political climates can feel unstable, adding to the tension. Avoid politics like you’d avoid a plague, and if tensions rise, blame the Steelers. Stay away from those areas, nothing good can come of it.

Today’s society is more stressful than at any time in modern day history. The thought of wars, weather disasters, and crime are stress inhibitors. The physical damage caused by stress may be the most dangerous medical condition of all, contributing to strokes and heart issues.

By acknowledging the potential for post holiday stress and implementing strategies to combat it, you can reduce anxiety and focus on enjoying the New Year. Let go of the old and bring on the new!