Many people find the holidays demanding because several pressures come together. Family expectations, disagreements about politics and extra costs for gifts and events can raise stress when people are supposed to relax and enjoy themselves.
Jason Moser, a clinical psychologist and professor at Michigan State University, explains these common sources of stress. He directs the Clinical Psychophysiology Lab and also serves as an associate dean of research.
Moser recommends taking a few minutes to reflect so people can notice what is causing stress and choose a calm response. He also advises removing stress-management tools that do not help and replacing them with simpler, more realistic strategies that better fit the situation.
Difficult words
- demanding — needing a lot of effort or energy
- pressure — forces or factors that make life difficultpressures
- expectation — belief about what should happen or be doneexpectations
- disagreement — a situation when people have different opinionsdisagreements
- reflect — to think carefully about something
- strategy — a plan of actions to reach a goalstrategies
- realistic — showing things as they really are
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Which holiday pressure from the article affects you most and why?
- What simple, realistic strategies could help during family gatherings?
- Have you ever tried taking a few minutes to reflect when stressed? What happened?
Related articles
Keeping healthy habits during the holidays
The holiday season often disrupts regular health routines. Samantha Harden of Virginia Tech recommends realistic, small changes—like habit stacking, gamifying activities, involving others and travel tips—and a broader view of well‑being so breaks are not failure.
Winter break activities that build children’s skills
A Virginia Tech educator says families can use everyday tasks during winter break to build thinking, planning and independence. Simple, hands-on activities like baking, budgeting and observing nature teach practical STEM and life skills without formal homework.
Study finds similar narcissism patterns across countries
An international study of over 45,000 people in 53 countries found consistent narcissism patterns. Younger adults and men scored higher, people in wealthier countries scored higher, and group-oriented cultures did not differ much from individualistic ones.
