The psychologist explains how the feeling of finishing a period can impact mental health
Psychologist Romanni Souza explains how the transition from one year to the next can influence our lives and talks about the value of the journey beyond goals.
Last Sunday, the Earth completed its rotation around its axis, marking another turning point in the year. From a human point of view, this event carries with it profound meanings, influencing the mind in different ways. Psychologist Romanni Souza, specialist in behavioral neuroscience, explains how this annual transition affects our emotions.
When it comes to New Year’s Eve and goals, psychologist Romanni Souza brings an important reflection on the valorization of travel. “In addition to setting goals and objectives, it is essential to think about the people we come into contact with during this journey. As an example I cite the story of Sisyphus, who was condemned to push a stone to the top of a hill, every time he reached his goal , the stone fell again and Sisyphus forever needed to climb with the stone again, the purpose of our life is not just to reach the top, like the punishment given to Sisyphus, but to value every day of the journey.” says the psychologist Romanni.
“In life, in the week, in the day, we can do anything, but we get to the end of the day and start the day again the next day. Our life, the cycles, the months, the year, is this mountain of Sisyphus, and the goal is not necessarily to reach the end of the mountain”, underlines the psychologist. He suggests that, just as Sisyphus learned to look inside himself and value the journey, we too can find meaning in our days, making the journey lighter and more fun by valuing the presence and the people who walk with us.
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“The transition from one year to the next generates reflections that do not normally occur in everyday life, with psychological effects on the brain”, highlights the psychologist. These reflections, according to Souza, range from the joy of reunions to the pressure associated with the end of a cycle. He points out that year-end syndrome, known as “dezembrite,” can occur when reflections on the previous year take on a more negative than positive tone.
“The cultural conception of time as cycles influences how the end of the year impacts psychologically. The brain takes stock of what has been experienced in the last 365 days, which can generate happiness or sadness, depending on experiences”, comments Romanni Souza. This need, according to the expert, can cause melancholy, while the pressure to achieve new goals can trigger anxiety and depression.
Promises and goals set at the end of the year can amplify the negative feelings associated with the end of a cycle. Souza points out that the pressure for productivity in the contemporary workplace contributes to self-demand, and it is essential to understand that not everything is under control.
“To avoid the pressure of the end of the year, adjust your expectations to reality and set smaller goals that contribute to larger goals. Taking care of your mental health during the holidays means avoiding comparisons with other people, reflecting on your accomplishments, and practicing gratitude”, concludes the psychologist.
In short, the mind interprets the turning point as a new cycle, allowing the adoption of new attitudes to promote well-being during this period.
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.
