The end of the year is something that most people celebrate, but for some people it also means a time of a lot of psychological pressure and even depression, related to unachieved goals.
The end of the year is undoubtedly a very special time. In a short period of time, several holidays can be celebrated, such as Christmas and New Year, and for a large part of the population this is a magical moment to make the most of.
However, some people tend to associate the end of the year with a period of great psychological pressure and even depression, linked to goals not achieved in the last year and negative expectations for the following year.
Faced with this problem which can upset and take away the magic of a moment awaited by many all year round, Alexander Bez*Psychologist specializing in Relationships, Anxiety and Panic Syndrome, he brings advice on how to deal with the pressure of the end of the year.
Watch!
How does the pressure linked to the end of year holidays arise?
The end of the year often brings with it a significant amount of pressure, demands and expectations. For many people, the holiday season can be a time of stress, anxiety and frustration.
The change of year represents the beginning of a new cycle in everyone’s life, a moment of renewal and transformation, but «when these elements do not materialize according to the original desire, personal needs arise which transform into ‘frustrations’, intensifying emotionally more than on other occasions”, explains psychologist Alexander Bez.
Although not a concept recognized by psychology, the term “Dezembrite” has become very common in recent times. It is commonly used to name those melancholy feelings that some experience at the end of the year, especially in December, symptoms that have already been proven by mental health professionals.
The onset of depressive and pressure symptoms related to the end-of-year holidays can occur due to the individual’s internal needs, but they can also be triggered by other people in his social circle.
Psychologist Alexander Bez underlines that “the brain interprets the absence of ‘necessary changes’ in the areas of life in which they should occur as a continuous feeling of personal failure, which inevitably takes on a depressive connotation, and this symptomatic manifestation can also extend to the first months of the year. This leads to automatically reflecting on whether or not the desired objectives have been achieved.”
How to deal with pressure during the end-of-year celebrations?
In order to deal with the pressure during the end-of-year celebrations, it is very important that you can occupy your mind with some activity that can distract you from those elements that activate the depressive factors in your body.
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“It is essential not to distance yourself from the celebrations; if you are separated from your loved ones, take care of different activities. If you cannot join a group, take part in volunteering, keeping yourself busy. Participating in the celebrations and participating in get-togethers can ward off depression, possibly avoiding it in the Christmas and New Year period”, explains the psychologist.
It is worth noting, however, that extracurricular activities are only catalysts in the symptom treatment process and are not a substitute for monitoring with a trained mental health professional.
Tips for dealing with end-of-year pressures and frustrations
If you identify with this situation, where the end-of-year holidays are synonymous with pressure, sadness, frustration and discomfort, there are some tips that can help you face this period and start the next year in a healthier way on a psychological level. Watch:
Set realistic goals
Before you start planning your next goals for the new year, it’s important to set realistic goals. Don’t try to do everything at once, as this will only add to your pressure.
“Recognizing that not doing some things is part of life and facing it is fundamental. Acting on the things at hand! Having this awareness and knowing how to continue to take care of yourself is essential to avoid further accentuating the feeling of frustration, preventing a more delicate than depression,” explains Alexander Bez.
Celebrate small achievements:
Even if your most extravagant goals weren’t achieved this year, know how to recognize and celebrate even the small victories!
Regardless of what your goal was, knowing how to appreciate your personal commitment in a way that no one else can helps create a feeling of inner fulfillment.
Take some time to relax
It is important to take time to relax and de-stress. Do activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, exercising, or spending time with people you love.
Pleasurable activities stimulate the brain’s release of chemicals such as oxytocin, serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and endorphins, which are together known as “happy hormones.”
Self knowledge
Self-knowledge is a fundamental tool for dealing with pressure. When you know your limits, it becomes easier to organize yourself and avoid unnecessary charges.
The psychologist says that it is important to be “open to self-analysis, adapting harmful behaviors and respecting your own time. Try to improve yourself in desired areas, if necessary, and, above all, understand that perfection does not exist”.
Focus on the present
As difficult as it may seem at the end of the year, focus on the present moment, rather than burdening yourself with worries about the past or future.
Enjoy the present moment, enjoy the holidays, participate in the preparation of themed foods, do some activities that promote goodness and rest for your mental health.
Ask for help
If you feel overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your family and friends or seek out a psychology specialist.
Symptoms of holiday pressure are not uncommon, and you’re not alone! It’s important to share your feelings with people you trust, as they can help you get through this moment in a healthy and light-hearted way.
Furthermore, the professional support of a psychologist is undoubtedly essential. He will be able to bring conceptual insight and help with emotional stability.
How about setting a goal for next year to take better care of your mental health?
*Source: Dr. Alexander Bez |Psychologist; University of Miami (UM) Relationship Specialist; Specialist in Anxiety and Panic Syndrome at the University of California (UCLA); Mental health specialist. He has been practicing the profession for over 20 years. | @alexanderbezoficial
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
