A study conducted at The University of Michigan reveals how parental stress impacts the holiday season for the family. One in five parents say their children have unrealistic expectations for the season, while one in four parents admit to setting overly idealistic expectations for themselves to ensure a perfect holiday. (neurosciencenews.com)
Trying to live up to finding the perfect gifts, preparing meals, and planning gatherings may bring stress and anxiety that take away from the holiday magic. Nearly a third of parents say stress comes from extra shopping and holiday tasks, keeping family members healthy, and household finances.
Bridget Richard, CEO and Founder of Lamplight Counseling Services, LLC, shares tips that may help to ease holiday stress:
- Exercise
- Get enough rest, 7-8 hours nightly
- Develop a holiday budget
- Use your calendar to plan specific days for shopping, baking, and schedule time for fun too!
- Get some fresh air daily
If you or your loved ones are exhibiting excessive anger, fear, sadness, depression, or other negative emotions or having a difficult time communicating, it may be time to speak with a professional.
Communication is the key to any relationship, including your family, especially during stressful times. Family therapy is designed to help family members improve communication, solve family problems, understand and handle special family situations (for example, death, serious physical or mental illness, or child and adolescent is- sues), and create a better-functioning home environment.
“We are all deserving of a life full of satisfaction and contentment. Sometimes, however, life can feel out of control. We can feel disconnected from the people and things we care about the most. Sometimes it is the people we most care about who become remote and unfamiliar. Our therapists provide a safe place for you and your loved
ones to process these feelings. From adults with feelings of depression to children struggling to pay attention in school, our client-centered approach can help you learn the skills you need to love life again.”
Bridget Richard
OFFERING SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS:
Depression / Anxiety • Personality Disorders Substance Abuse • Anger Management
Stress Management • Trauma/PTSD
Grief Counseling • LGBTQ Issues
ADHD • Self-Harming
Disordered Eating • Child and Adolescent Issues Behavioral Problems • Domestic Abuse Co-Parent Counseling
• Parenting Issues and Support
