The Random House College Dictionary defines stress as “physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension.” Experts agree some stress is necessary and even healthy, but this time of year most people experience more stress than is good for them.Amanda Rohrer, a licensed marriage and family therapist with the Pikes Peak Mental Health Center, said the center sees an increase in stress cases during the holiday season. She explained that this time of year is especially difficult for those who’ve lost a family member or whose families are separated because of the war or other circumstances.Rohrer said less extreme cases of stress are caused when people lose the healthy balance associated with a normal life. During the holidays, people are racing the clock and trying to get too much done in too little time. As they are jetting around, they tend to overeat, forget about exercise and they sleep too little, leaving them susceptible to illness and depression.Stress can also occur when people have unrealistic expectations, Rohrer said. If people haven’t made an accurate account of their time and finances, they can overbook or overspend, which leads to feeling overwhelmed, she said. Sometimes members of blended families, especially, have different ideas for celebrating the holidays, which adds up to more stress and disappointment. Rohrer suggested that in these situations, family members talk openly and share their ideas about their holiday expectations.Often during the holiday season, people focus too much on doing things for others and they neglect themselves. Unfortunately, many people deal with stress through drugs or alcohol or excessive shopping and overspending, all of which can make the situation worse, she said. Sometimes the stress and resulting depression can lead to thoughts of suicide. Those who are feeling depressed or suicidal during the holidays, or know someone with these symptoms, should call the crisis hotline at the Pikes Peak Mental Health Center’s Lighthouse at 635-7000 any hour or day. “Sometimes people just need someone to help them develop some new skills to cope,” Rohrer explained.For the most part, holiday stress is manageable, Rohrer continued. Besides getting enough sleep, eating healthy food and exercising, people should try taking a bubble bath or spend some relaxing time with friends. And a bit of time for oneself can restore balance, she said.
