Hectic Holidays + New Year = Stress-Inducing Combination
VERMILLION, S.D. - The combination of end-of-year holidays and the start of a new year can create extra stress for almost anyone.
Some people bring it on themselves by creating stress with their own sometimes unrealistic expectations, says Lynette Melby, a Vermillion-based nurse practitioner and behavioral health specialist with Horizon Health Care.
"Expectations are often not met, and then that leads to more stress and depression. So, setting those goals and those realistic expectations are the first big factor a person needs to think about."
Another issue this time of year, Melby says, is the lack of natural sunlight, with long, dark winter nights. Many people, she adds, also feel stress because of their economic situations and the pressure to buy the "right" gifts. She often urges people to look outside themselves for help.
"Go serve at a soup kitchen. Go help a family in need. Go donate to your food pantry. Feel as if you are doing something - because no matter how harmful your economic times might be for you, I can guarantee there's somebody out there who has it worse."
Melby says taking a few minutes to relax and breathe also can be helpful at this time of the year.
