Art by @avamariedoodles
I originally wrote this last year, but thought it worth repeating – especially this year with covid making things even more stressful than they already are.
During a lecture on stress, the professor showed this list of things people found moststressfull. On the top of the list was death of a loved one, divorce, serious illness and so on.
Everybody understands why they’re on the list.
However, on the lower side of the list was Christmas and holidays. And many of my classmates voiced their confusion.
But I understand Christmas can be very stressful (and by that I mean distressful, not just feeling busy). There can be a lot of pressure to be a certain way, buy more than you can afford. It can bring back painful memories. For some people visiting family isn’t a happy or safe experience. Some people don’t have a family to visit. Chronic illness and pain doesn’t take a holiday during the holidays.
To you I say: I see you, and I hear you. Your feelings are valid. It’s okay if this is isn’t the most wonderful time of the year. You are still loved, and you are not alone ❤️
