Learn How You Can Handle Stress During the Holidays

So far, the U.S. has recorded more than 9.5 million COVID-19 cases, with more than 230,000 fatalities, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even worse, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) has predicted a possible increase in new COVID-19 infections and deaths this winter, thanks to the cold weather that favors the survival of most viruses. Thus, winter holiday celebrations may be a bit different this year, which may increase the stress levels among many Americans.

Here are four handy tips to help you manage stress during holidays.

1. Stay on Budget

An average American spends more than $1,000 during the winter holidays, per the National Retail Federation (NRF). However, this amount may reduce by 5% in the 2020 winter holidays following the COVID-19 recession that has harmed many Americans financially. For example, about 50% of Americans have cut their expenditure due to the prevailing harsh economic environment, as reported by Statista. With a long shopping list and inadequate money in the bank, the chances are that your stress levels will go up because of the pressure that comes with such a situation. To avoid stress in holidays, ensure you create a manageable budget and stick to it.

2. Donate Your Old Items

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), giving to others boosts your mood, which may significantly impact your mental health. More specifically, helping a needy person can ease stress and improve your self-esteem. Hence, you can deal with stress during holidays by donating your old items to less privileged children in local charities, orphanages, and foster homes. Examples of such things include, among others, old toys, books, clothes, food, and shoes.

3. Take Precautions against COVID-19

As you celebrate the winter holidays, you should remember that COVID-19 is still an active threat in the U.S. Nothing else will probably stress you more than getting infected with the virus, or worse yet, passing the virus to your loved ones. For this reason, ensure you take the precautionary measures against the virus seriously to increase your chances of surviving the winter season. To lower your chances of being infected, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends taking safety measures such as proper sanitation of hands and surfaces, wearing a mask in crowded places, and maintaining social distance. Limit the number of parties you attend this holiday and adhere to the safety standards whenever you attend one. In essence, staying safe from COVID-19 will keep your stress levels in check.

4. Make Self-care a Priority

A survey by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) indicates that chronic stress may contribute to physical health conditions such as common cold, muscle pain, stomach ulcers, obesity, and heart diseases. It may also cause sleep dysfunction and slower healing. Perfect health is all you need during the winter holidays to keep stress at bay. To achieve this, practice self-care activities such as exercising, eating healthy, sleeping adequately, spending time with your loved ones, and staying away from toxic situations. In case of stress, napping, taking a walk, or watching your favorite movie can help you manage stress during holidays.

Use these tips to manage stress during holidays, even amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Also, make sure to have the right personal insurance to protect you and your family. Contact the experts at Robert J. Los Insurance Agency in Hamburg, New York, for all your insurance needs. We look forward to helping you with all your coverage needs.