Surviving Holiday Stress: A Deep Dive into Festive Anxiety
Episode Overview
Explore various triggers and stressors contributing to festive anxiety Discuss the impacts of peer pressure and gift anxiety during the holidays Emphasize the importance of self-care and seeking support Reflect on the challenges of achieving goals as another year comes to a close Offer well wishes for the new year and encourage prioritizing emotional well-being
The reality that another year is over, and you look back and wonder if you've achieved the goals. I think it's probably more New Year's than Christmas, but it's all lumped into one really, isn't it?
Ever felt the weight of the holiday season pressing down on you? You're not alone. In this episode of 'Sideways', hosts Graham Landi and Martin Pankhurst tackle the often overlooked issue of festive anxiety. They chat about why the holidays can be a minefield of stress, especially for those in recovery. Martin, battling a cold, adds a humorous twist with his story about an awkward gift exchange that went terribly wrong.
But it's not all laughs; the duo dives into the real reasons behind holiday stress, from the pressure to create the perfect Christmas to the fear of gaining weight or forgetting to send cards. They also touch on the impact of peer pressure and the unrealistic expectations set by holiday movies and ads. Throughout the episode, Graham and Martin emphasize the importance of reaching out for help and remind listeners that it's okay to feel overwhelmed.
They wrap up with a heartfelt wish for a peaceful and love-filled new year, encouraging everyone to prioritize self-care over perfection. If you're looking for a blend of humor, empathy, and practical advice on managing holiday stress, this episode is a must-listen.