Starbucks is using their red holiday cup and the malls are playing holiday-themed music – it must be the holiday season. Not everyone enjoys the hustle and bustle this time of year; many get stressed with all the dinners to plan, feasts to cook and gifts to buy. UHNews sat down with Krysia Theriault, Advanced Practice Nurse Educator, Department of Psychiatry, to talk about the causes— and treatment—of holiday stress.
What are some of the common symptoms of stress?
Stress is what you experience when the level of your stressors exceeds your ability to cope. Because each person reacts differently to stressful situations, it is impossible to provide a precise list of symptoms. However, some common stress symptoms can be grouped into three categories: emotional, physical and relational. Emotional symptoms are often the first signs of stress and if ignored can result in more serious physical and relational symptoms. Such symptoms include anxiety, restlessness, worrying, irritability, trouble thinking clearly, sadness, depression, and frustration.
Physical symptoms might be caused by other illnesses so it is important to be examined by a physician to rule out any other underlying illnesses. However, since the body and mind are not separate entities, physical problems may directly result from stress or be exacerbated by stress. Such symptoms include headache, sleep disturbances, back, shoulder or neck pain, upset stomach, weight gain or loss, fatigue, and high blood pressure.
In stressful situations, relationships with our patients, colleagues, family and friends can rapidly deteriorate. Under excessive stress, we can become more argumentative, more prone to overreactions, have more conflicts, and may also withdraw from social activities.
Is there an increased amount of stress during the holiday season?
Yes, as the holiday season often brings with it a number of extra demands, such as shopping, cleaning, entertaining and parties to name a few.
Are there any holiday triggers that set off stress?
There are three common holiday triggers that set off stress: relationships, finances and physical demands. During the holiday season, family gatherings can instigate or intensify family misunderstandings and conflicts.
Alternatively, facing the holidays without a loved one can be extremely difficult, often leaving one feeling lonely, sad and depressed.
The holidays can also be taxing financially given the added expenses of gifts, travel, food and entertainment. Not sticking to a budget and overspending can result in financial worries for months to come.
Shopping and socializing can be physically exhausting, increasing stress levels. Ensuring good sleep hygiene, eating and exercise habits can help to combat and eliminate stress and fatigue.
What health effects does stress have on the mind and body?
Symptoms of stress may affect your mental and physical well being. Crying, headaches, forgetfulness or decreased work productivity may be the result of stress. Other potentially serious health problems may also trigger these symptoms so it is imperative that you follow up with your doctor to rule out any other underlying causes.
Some examples of the effects of stress on your body are headache, back pain, chest pain, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, upset stomach, and problems sleeping.
Examples of the effects of stress on your thoughts and feelings are anxiety, restlessness, worrying, irritability, sadness, depression, anger, feeling insecure, forgetfulness and burnout.
If you recognize any of these stress symptoms, taking steps to manage your stress can have numerous health benefits.
What resources are available to UHN staff who are feeling stressed out?
Take steps to prevent stress that can descend during the holidays by engaging in some activities such as reflection, meditation and yoga. You can access such activities through the Wellness Centre at UHN or through or Spiritual Care Department. Work colleagues are wonderful peer supports during times of stress; however, some find confidential services provided by the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to be beneficial as well. Accessing these UHN resources may help you to enjoy the holiday season more than you thought you ever could.