If you are experiencing mounting stress as the holiday season progresses, know that you are not alone.
As the nation advances through the festive season, 31 per cent of Americans find this time of the year ‘frantic’—and almost half of mothers feel the pressure of trying to craft the perfect Christmas, according to a new study.
The study, commissioned by the US Highbush Blueberry Council, a professional organization of blueberry growers, examines people’s stress levels and related behaviors during the holiday season.
Seasonal worries: As the nation advances through the festive season, 31 per cent of Americans find this time of the year ‘frantic’, according to a new study (stock picture)
Timeline: According to the study, holiday-induced stressed begins around December 13, worsens on average from December 18, and peaks at 2:05 pm on Christmas Day
It found that the ‘festive stress’ timeline extends throughout December, with initial bursts of holiday-related stress popping up around December 13 for the average respondent.
For anyone feeling less than on top of things, the turning point from mild to severe stress comes on December 18. It then peaks on Christmas Day at 2:05 pm, just as many families are sitting down to dinner.
To keep pace with their chaotic schedules, an impressive 49 per cent of people turn to coffee, while one in six consume energy drinks.
Meanwhile, 74 per cent of people overload on snacks and treats to get them through. Comparatively, only a quarter turn to fruit for a burst of energy.
All this emotional eating can add up and create even more negative emotions, with 60 per cent of those polled saying they experience guilt for their eating habits over the holidays.
In response to holiday-induced stress, some find themselves craving time alone. The average person takes five periods of ‘me time’ away from the festivities in a bid to re-energize, according to the study.
Caffeine: To keep pace with their chaotic schedules, an impressive 49 per cent of people turn to coffee, while one in six consume energy drinks
Perfectionist? The pressure to have a ‘perfect Christmas’ also takes its toll on 41 per cent of Americans, who confess to working ‘too hard’ to achieve it
Relaxing: The average person takes five periods of ‘me time’ away from the festivities in a bid to re-energize, according to the study
Tasks: For 56 per cent of people, anxiety-inducing activities include gift shopping. Crowds and lines also feature for 54 per cent of people, and cleaning for 45 per cent
They might be particularly likely to take a break after one of the holiday activities they deem most stressful.
For 56 per cent of people, these anxiety-inducing activities include gift shopping. Crowds and lines also feature for 54 per cent of people, followed by cleaning (45 per cent), knowing what presents to buy (38 per cent), and cooking (36 per cent).
The pressure to have a ‘perfect Christmas’ also takes its toll on 41 per cent of Americans, who confess to working ‘too hard’ to achieve it. The percentage jumps to 49 per cent for mothers, who experience additional pressure to pull off a dreamy holiday gathering.
No wonder, then, that the findings showed that they struggle to stop and refuel properly. Six in ten moms say they find it hard to slow down and enjoy the festive season.
When Americans do find time to unwind, the most popular methods include listening to music (for 53 per cent of people), watching a favorite show or film (45 per cent), taking a nap (43 per cent) or enjoying a snack (42 per cent).