Managing Holiday Stress Amid 'Christmas Creep'

The holiday season often brings stress and family tension, with Thanksgiving increasingly overshadowed by 'Christmas creep,' which pushes holiday shopping and decorations earlier each year, thus eroding the traditional focus on gratitude and family gatherings. Experts like Dr. Nicole Noble and DeAna Jo Vivian advise managing holiday stress by setting realistic expectations, taking breaks to cool off during heated discussions, and acknowledging the importance of apologies. For those alienated from family, Thanksgiving can be especially isolating, but reframing the day can turn it into a time of self-compassion and healing. Political discussions following the 2024 election may also contribute to tension, with suggestions to set conversational boundaries and engage in activities like volunteering to foster gratitude. Despite the potential for conflict, the holiday season can still be a time for connection and reflection if approached mindfully.