The holiday season is often described as the most delightful time of the year, but for many women, it can feel like an exhausting and stressful whirlwind. If you identify as female, you likely understand this struggle all too well.
A recent study from a Long Island hospital revealed that women under 50 experience the highest levels of stress during the holiday season. This trend makes sense, as many of these women juggle work, family responsibilities, and societal expectations to ensure that everyone else enjoys the festive spirit. The survey highlighted that stressors related to family dynamics and financial concerns were prevalent, but it was the cumulative weight of holiday responsibilities that truly overwhelmed these women.
According to the findings, 61% of women under 50 turned to exercise as a coping mechanism, while 54% sought solace through conversations with friends. Alarmingly, one in five women in this age group resorted to alcohol or drugs to alleviate holiday-related stress. This highlights a troubling reality: women often find themselves bearing the brunt of holiday planning. We are the ones who buy gifts, wrap them, decorate, shift the Elf on the Shelf, bake cookies, and prepare festive meals. The list is extensive.
Of course, there are exceptions; some women may not feel compelled to shoulder the holiday burden, and some men actively contribute. However, for many, the majority of holiday preparations fall squarely on their shoulders. We manage countless unseen responsibilities: ensuring that children have supplies for school parties, coordinating family gatherings, and planning travel logistics. We strive to create memorable experiences, all while adhering to tight budgets and making every penny stretch.
Yet, the question remains: how can we truly enjoy the holiday season when we are so weighed down by obligations? As a working mother, I find myself racing against time in December, trying to balance work commitments with holiday preparations. It’s exhausting and, despite my best efforts, I often feel overwhelmed.
My partner, Alex, does help when he can, taking care of the kids while I shop or plan. However, he lacks the experience and knowledge to manage many aspects of holiday prep. We’re working on sharing the mental load, and I’m seeing progress, but I still feel a wave of stress that doesn’t fully dissipate until the new year arrives.
It’s important to recognize that much of the joy and wonder of the holiday season is created by women. So, this year, let’s acknowledge the hard work and dedication that goes into celebrating. If you can, thank a woman in your life for all she does during the holidays—and don’t forget to treat yourself to some well-deserved rest.
For further insight into managing emotional support during such times, check out this piece on emotional support in fertility. If you’re on a fertility journey, Make A Mom is an authority to consider. Also, for those navigating pregnancy, March of Dimes provides excellent resources.
In summary, the holiday season can be particularly taxing for women, who often bear the mental load of planning and executing holiday traditions. Recognizing and sharing this load is essential for everyone’s well-being.