summary: A recent study found that for many Americans, the holiday season is more stressful than tax season, impacting their mental and physical health.
The survey was conducted in December 2023 among 1,000 U.S. adults and found that 63% believe that balancing work, family, and festive events makes the holidays more stressful. 71% regret not taking the time to relax and enjoy their vacation, and it often takes several weeks, or even a month, to recover from stress.
This study highlights the importance of managing chronic stress to maintain good health during the holidays and advocates simple, healthy habits to ease the burden of the holidays.
Important facts:
- 63% of survey respondents find the holiday season more stressful than tax season.
- 71% regret not taking time to relax on vacation because it took them longer to recover from stress.
- The American Heart Association recommends maintaining healthy habits such as eating wisely, being more physically active, and getting better sleep to manage holiday stress.
sauce: american heart association
Holidays are more stressful than taxes, causing people to overlook their health during the “most wonderful time of the year,” according to a new study from the American Heart Association. This research suggests that adults of all ages are struggling to prioritize their mental and physical health during this time.
Survey of 1,000 adults nationwide in December 2023 for American Heart Association's “Healthy for Good”TM In an initiative by Wakefield Research, more than half (63%) claimed they felt more stressed during the holiday season than tax season. Balancing work, family, finances, and daily obligations while trying to fit in the celebratory events that make this time of year so special can be a challenge for many, causing chronic stress. Masu.
The majority of survey respondents (71%) said their biggest holiday regret was not taking time to relax and enjoy themselves. Most survey respondents said it takes several weeks for stress to subside after a vacation. Mothers report that it takes more than a month to recover.
The demands of the holiday season can often feel overwhelming. However, by practicing some simple healthy habits, you can reduce stress from the hustle and bustle of the holidays and feel more relaxed.
“Chronic stress, if left unmanaged, can negatively impact both long-term mental and physical health in a variety of ways,” said Dr. said Glenn N. Levin, MD, American Heart Association 2021 Mental Health Writing Chair. A scientific statement about existence and the mind-heart-body connection.
“The holidays are a time when it's easy to justify putting healthy habits on the back burner, but managing chronic stress and other risk factors is important to staying healthy through the holidays and into the new year. is.”
It can be difficult to maintain healthy habits during the holidays, but these small additions from the American Heart Association, a global movement that creates longer, healthier lives for everyone, can help make your holiday more enjoyable. Helps manage stress.
- eat wisely – Eat in moderation and think about what colorful fruits and vegetables you can eat. addition Foods to serve on the table and foods to avoid.
- move more – Physical activity is one of the best ways to manage stress, so try to take a short walk every day. Every movement is important.
- sleep well – Quality sleep affects your mood, eating habits, memory, and more. Try setting an alarm to remind you to turn off your phone's notifications and relax.
Connecting with others is one of the most important aspects of the holiday season. When you or a loved one starts to feel stressed, be sure to express your feelings and support each other so that you can enjoy the holidays with a lighter and healthier heart.
About this stress research news
author: erin monty
sauce: american heart association
contact: Erin Monti – American Heart Association
image: Image credited to Neuroscience News
