As you’ll hear Andy Williams chronicle over the next few weeks, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. For some holiday revelers, that is. But for others, whatever traditions they plan to observe this winter, the season is about more stress party.
A majority of Americans (56%) say that having adequate alone time is a critical component for them mental health-however, almost half (46%) do not make it during the winter holidays. That’s according to a new survey Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Faculty of Medicinethe results of which were published on December 3.
Carving out alone time for yourself, however fleeting, can sustain both mental and physical benefitsaccording to Sophie Lazarus, Ph.Da clinical psychologist at Ohio State who specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, as well mindfulness-based interventions.
“Just by taking a short break, our nervous system can settle down, our mind can be fixedour body can be fixed,” Lazaro said in a news release about the survey. “And I think that can be important. We know that chronic stress is not good for us“.
Ohio State polled more than 1,000 U.S. adults in October and asked them if they agreed with the following statements:
- I wish I had more time to myself: 43%
- Adequate alone time is very important to my mental health: 56%
- I have less alone time on vacation: 46%
- I’m more irritable because I don’t have enough alone time: 36%
Men (47%) and women (45%) were equally likely to say they spend less time alone on vacation. Those over 65 (38%) were least likely to say the same, with younger age groups ranging from 47% to 49%. When considering annual household income, those bringing in $50,000 to $74,999 are the least likely (31%) to report taking fewer vacations; Higher and lower income respondents ranged from 42% to 50%. People of color (50%) were more likely than white respondents (43%) to report inappropriate time alone during the holidays.
During this season of giving, it’s good to present the gift of solitude, Lazaro said.
“I think it’s important to remember that putting yourself first in this moment doesn’t mean you’re selfish and it doesn’t mean you always choose to prioritize yourself over others.”
The US loneliness epidemic continues
The Ohio State poll comes as the nation faces one the loneliness epidemic. Last year, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared the problem a public health crisishis office emphasizing the lack of social connection increases the risk of premature death more than 60%
“Our relationships are a source of healing and well-being hidden in plain sight that can help us live healthier, fuller and more productive lives,” Murthy said. Statement of May 2023. “Given the significant health consequences of loneliness and isolation, we must prioritize building social connectedness in the same way that we prioritize other critical public health issues such as tobacco, obesityand substance use disorders. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient, less lonely and more connected country.”
However, although loneliness can be accompanied by feelings of sadness and abandonment, loneliness represents a happy choice to be alone. If you prefer, you don’t have to be physically alone to enjoy alone time, Lazaro said.
“Some people can only live to go to a movie or go to a park where there are a lot of people or go to a coffee shop,” Lazaro said. “It could also be that they don’t have to act or interact in a more socially correct way.”
Psychologist’s advice on planning holidays alone
If your holiday schedule is packed, remember that taking time for yourself doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort, Lazaro said. Keep it simple by adding alone time to your routine.
“Try putting your phone in a completely different room when you decide you’re going to spend time alone, knowing it how hard it is to hold backthe attractions of our attention and our priorities”, said Lazaro. “Or, take two or three minutes in the car before you pick up your kids or before you get home after work to be alone.”
He added: “One size doesn’t fit all. It’s best to be flexible and find a balance.”
In addition, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention She offers the following tips for managing stress:
- take five Take a deep breath and relax. Even five minutes of self-care can help.
- Be active Go for a walk, stretch, or find another physical activity that works for you.
- Connect with others. Connect with friends and family.
- Stick to a daily routine that includes rest, the exerciseand healthy eating.
- Seek help from friends, family and trusted organizations. Talk about your feelings with others. Reach out to your clergy or others in your faith community.
- Get help from a professional. Talk to A health center about how you feel
If you need immediate mental health help, get in touch 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
For more information on stress and loneliness:
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