While the holidays are usually a joyous time, nearly 90% of Americans admit they get stressed about something during this time of year.
For people who experience social anxiety — more than 12% of Americans — the holidays can be even more challenging because they often involve more social interactions than usual.
At Boston Neurobehavioral Associates, our team of psychiatry and psychology specialists are social anxiety experts who understand the toll the holidays can take on your mental health.
Our goal is to help guide you through this season with compassionate support. Since so many patients come to us with social anxiety concerns at this time of year, we thought December was a good time to tackle the topic on the blog. Here are a few tips you can use to help ease social anxiety during the holiday season.
You probably have quite a few options for holiday gatherings, between your work, family, and friends. But, you don’t have to do it all. If the thought of a particular social gathering makes you incredibly anxious, remember, you don’t have to attend every event.
Choose the events with people who you feel the most comfortable around, not the ones who make you nervous and stressed. By being choosy, you can help yourself feel more relaxed right from the start of the event.
Struggle with small talk? You’re not alone. Many people feel anxious about holiday gatherings for that reason, and when you have social anxiety already, it can make things even more challenging.
If you’re planning to attend an event but feel worried about what to say, come up with a few potential topics beforehand.
Holiday shopping, decorating, cooking, or other seasonal topics can make a good icebreaker and help set both you and others at ease.
Or, giving a compliment is always an easy way to start chatting. Generic topics like these give everyone a chance to talk and take some of the pressure off you.
If you’re at a gathering and suddenly feel like the walls are closing in, the noise is overpowering, or there’s just too much going on around you, take a break. Trying to “push through” may only spike your anxiety further.
Or, if you’ve been going nonstop and are feeling “peopled out,” that’s okay. It just means you need a break.
Take some time to find a quieter place where you can be alone to breathe deeply, close your eyes, and ground yourself mentally. Maybe even indulge in a whole evening of “me time,” with your favorite snack and a movie.
Even just a short break can be remarkably restorative, giving you the mental fuel you need for the future.
At most holiday events, whether it’s a party or a dinner, the hosts have a lot to do — often, so much that they might not get to really enjoy their own event. Why not offer to help out?
Whether it’s taking coats at the door, helping set the table, pitching in on meal prep, showing new guests where everything is located, or something else, it’s a great way to keep your hands and mind busy. That can translate to lower anxiety levels and help you really enjoy the event, too.
Need some extra help with anxiety during the holidays? We’re here for you. Our experienced psychiatry and psychology specialists provide telehealth services throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Illinois. Call the office nearest you, or contact us online today.
