FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
Feelings of social fatigue can be more intense during the holiday season. However, through psychological analysis and expert guidance, there is a way to enjoy the holidays stress-free.
If just the thought of family visits and gatherings with friends makes you feel exhausted before the holiday season begins, know that you're not alone. "Social fatigue" is extremely common this time of year, when the pressure to be social, cheerful, and get into the holiday spirit increases significantly.
"Social fatigue can manifest as emotional exhaustion, irritability, mental fogginess and a strong need to withdraw from social interactions. Many people feel socially 'drained' even at events they normally enjoy," explains Sarah Hodges, Manager of LMFT and Therapy Network at Headspace.
"It can also manifest itself in the form of psychosomatic symptoms, such as headaches, shoulder pain, or a general feeling of heaviness."
Is it normal to be tired during the holidays?
Yes, and it's very common. Even the most extroverted people can feel exhausted during the holidays, as the disruption of daily routine often strains the nervous system, and this is completely normal.
"The holiday season often brings disruptions to routine, increased family obligations, travel, and constant stimulation. Even enjoyable gatherings can be tiring, so it's understandable to feel exhausted when everything starts to quiet down ," explains Sarah.
“Many people feel more tired when they take a break from work and responsibilities. When you're constantly stressed, overwhelmed with deadlines and caring for children, the nervous system remains on high alert. Once you relax, the body finally gets permission to rest, which often feels like a 'crash.'”
This can also affect the immune system.
"When you finally slow down, the immune system finds an opportunity to fight whatever was bothering you. This is why so many people get sick when they take a break," the expert adds.
Those who are more susceptible to social fatigue
Certain groups of people are more likely to experience severe social fatigue, and this category includes parents, caregivers, introverts, and highly sensitive individuals who tend to tire more easily in this area, according to the expert.
Psychotherapist Sarah Turner adds that women are often more affected.
"The roles we take on, partner, wife, mother, mean that we often keep the whole family system in motion. That means more pressure."
How do we handle such a situation?
Fortunately, there are effective ways to deal with social fatigue without having to cancel all of our holiday obligations. The expert insists on a proper daily schedule that includes clear boundaries and time between meetings and obligations. At the same time, she suggests that a few minutes of isolation, whether it's outside in the fresh air, in a quiet room, or simply taking a few deep breaths, can help the nervous system recover.
"A quick meditation, such as focusing on your breathing or the sensation of your body in that moment, can also stabilize you and bring you back to normal," she adds.
Lini një Përgjigje