Holiday Stress
What is one common cause of holiday stress related to money?
What is the term for the self-care practice of deliberately focusing on the present moment?
Mindfulness
You usually attend a weekly therapy session, but your therapist is on vacation for the holidays. What’s one way to maintain support during this time?
Reach out to a trusted friend or family member, use self-help resources, or practice techniques learned in therapy.
You’ve been invited to a loud and crowded holiday party, but you feel overwhelmed by social anxiety. What’s a way to set a boundary that protects your mental health?
“Thank you for the invite, but I’m not feeling up to a large gathering. I’d love to catch up one-on-one another time.”
What percentage of annual charitable donations are made during December in the United States? [1-100%]
Approximately 30%.
What can you do to manage feeling overwhelmed by holiday to-do lists?
Break tasks into smaller steps and prioritize.
Name two physical activities proven to reduce stress during the holidays.
Yoga and aerobic exercise (e.g., running, cycling).
Your holiday schedule is packed, and you’re tempted to skip meals to save time. How can you prioritize your physical health?
Plan simple, nutritious meals or keep healthy snacks on hand to maintain energy.
“Thank you for the invite, but I’m not feeling up to a large gathering. I’d love to catch up one-on-one another time.”
“I understand you want me to join, but I need to take care of myself right now. Let’s focus on enjoying the time we do have together.”
How many calories are in the average holiday meal?
Around 3,000–4,500 calories.
What is a healthy way to cope with family disagreements during the holidays?
Set boundaries and practice active listening.
Which hormone, often called the “feel-good” hormone, is released during acts of kindness like giving gifts?
Oxytocin
The holiday season disrupts your usual sleep schedule. What’s one strategy to ensure you get enough rest?
Set a consistent bedtime and create a calming bedtime routine, like reading or meditating
You struggle with depression, and someone pressures you to “just cheer up” or “be more festive.” What boundary can you set to redirect the conversation?
“I appreciate your concern, but comments like that don’t help. I’m managing my feelings in my own way.”
What is the largest Christmas gift ever given?
The Statue of Liberty, gifted by France to the U.S. in 1886.
Name one way to reduce stress caused by holiday travel.
Plan ahead, pack early, and leave extra time for delays.
What’s one way to practice gratitude during the holidays?
Write down three things you’re thankful for each day.
You feel overwhelmed by holiday obligations and don’t know where to start. How can maintaining a routine help?
Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and schedule time for each, while ensuring breaks for self-care.
A friend keeps asking you to stay up late watching holiday movies, but you need rest to manage your mental health. How do you set a boundary?
“I love spending time with you, but I need to get enough sleep to feel my best. Let’s pick an earlier time to watch movies.”
What is the world’s best-selling Christmas single of all time?
“White Christmas” by Bing Crosby.
What is one mindfulness technique to use when feeling holiday stress?
Practice deep breathing or grounding exercises.
Name three financial habits that can reduce stress caused by holiday overspending.
Creating a budget, tracking expenses, and avoiding impulse purchases.
A family member questions why you need medication for mental health, making you feel uncomfortable. How can you respond while setting a boundary?
“My medication helps me manage my health, and it’s not something I want to discuss right now.”
You feel obligated to explain your mental health challenges to a distant relative who keeps asking intrusive questions. How can you politely set a boundary?
“I’d prefer not to talk about personal matters right now. Let’s focus on enjoying the holidays.”
What country is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition?
Germany