Holiday Shopping Surge Raises Stress Levels, Experts Warn Now

UPDATE: Holiday shopping is in full swing as crowds flock to stores like Target in Fresno, California, seeking the best deals. Early Friday morning, shoppers lined up outside, eager to grab items like discounted AirPods and Beats headphones. Yet, as excitement builds, so does the holiday stress.

Experts are sounding the alarm on the rising levels of stress associated with the festive season. According to the American Psychiatric Association, last year, a staggering 28% of Americans reported increased holiday-related anxiety, driven by pressures from gift buying, family dynamics, and grief.

Coraline Robinson, a licensed Family and Marriage Therapist at Balance Treatment Center, emphasizes the importance of managing expectations during this time. “When we have high expectations, what happens? Well, they can only go down,” Robinson explains.

With shopping season upon us, stress management techniques are critical. Robinson advises taking breaks and setting boundaries. “Taking a few deep breaths, finding a private room can help when we’re under stress with our families,” she adds. This advice is crucial as families come together for gatherings that can often lead to tension.

Moreover, Robinson highlights the benefits of exercise as a stress reliever. “We want to depress our nervous systems,” she states. Engaging in physical activity before a family event can help individuals feel calmer and more relaxed.

Nutrition also plays a significant role in stress levels. Robinson urges people to monitor their alcohol and sugar intake during the holidays. She suggests, “There’s going to be a lot of pushing, marketing, and different things online right now. It’s good to take a break and lose yourself in an audiobook or podcast.”

As the holiday rush continues, experts remind everyone it’s okay to step back from the hustle and give oneself grace. The message is clear: managing holiday stress is essential for a fulfilling season.

Stay tuned for more updates as we cover how communities navigate holiday challenges and seek joy amidst the chaos. For real-time updates, follow Ana Torrea on Facebook, X, and Instagram.