As you’ll no doubt hear Andy Williams singing in the coming weeks, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. At least for some holiday enthusiasts. But for others, no matter what traditions they choose to observe this winter, the season is more of one Stress-proof.
The majority of Americans (56%) say having enough alone time is a crucial part of their lives mental health– but almost half (46%) don’t get it during the winter holidays. This is the result of a new survey by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center And College of Medicinethe results of which were published on December 3rd.
Taking time for yourself, however fleeting, can endure both mental and physical benefitsaccordingly Sophie Lazarus, PhDa clinical psychologist at Ohio State who specializes in mood and anxiety disorders Mindfulness-based interventions.
“Just by taking a short break, our nervous system can calm down, Our mind can calm downour bodies can calm down,” Lazarus said in a press release about the survey. “And I think that can be important. We know that Chronic stress is not good for us.”
Ohio State surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. adults in October whether they agreed with the following statements:
- I wish I could have more time alone: 43%
- Having enough time alone is very important for my mental health: 56%
- During the holidays I spend less time alone: 46%
- I’m more irritable because I don’t have enough time alone: 36%
Men (47%) and women (45%) were about equally likely to say they have less time to themselves during the holidays. Those over 65 (38%) are least likely to experience this, with younger age groups ranging from 47% to 49%. When annual household income is taken into account, those making between $50,000 and $74,999 were least likely (31%) to report spending less time alone on vacation; Respondents in higher and lower income brackets ranged from 42% to 50%. People with dark skin (50%) were more likely than white respondents (43%) to say they didn’t have enough alone time during the holidays.
“During this season of giving, it is okay to give yourself the gift of solitude,” Lazarus said.
“I think it’s important to remember that the mere fact that you’re prioritizing yourself in this moment doesn’t mean you’re selfish and doesn’t mean you’re always making the choice to prioritize yourself over others “prioritize.”
The loneliness epidemic in the United States continues
The Ohio State poll comes at a time when the nation is grappling with an issue Loneliness epidemic. Last year, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy the problem to a Public health crisiswith his office emphasizing the lack of social connection increases the risk of premature death by more than 60%.
“Our relationships are a hidden source of healing and well-being – one that can help us live healthier, more fulfilling and productive lives,” Murthy said a statement from May 2023. “Given the significant health consequences of loneliness and isolation, we must prioritize building social connections, just as we have prioritized other critical public health issues, such as: tobacco, obesityAnd Substance use disorders. Together we can build a country that is healthier, more resilient, less lonely and more connected.”
However, while loneliness can be accompanied by feelings of sadness and abandonment, loneliness suggests a contented choice to be alone. If you want, you don’t have to be physically alone to enjoy alone time, Lazarus said.
“Some people may experience a period of aloneness when they go to the movies alone, go to a park where there are a lot of people, or go to a coffee shop,” Lazarus said. “It may also be due to a lack of need to appear more direct or interact socially.”
Tips from a psychologist on how to spend your vacation alone
If your vacation calendar is full, remember that making time for yourself doesn’t necessarily take a lot of time or effort, Lazarus said. When adding alone time to your routine, keep it simple.
“Try placing your phone in a completely different room if you decide to spend time alone and knowledgeable how hard it is to resist the temptation“It hogs our attention and our priorities,” Lazarus said. “Or take two or three minutes in the car before you pick up your kids or before you go back into the house after work to just be alone.”
She added: “One size doesn’t fit all. It’s best to be flexible and find a balance.”
Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these tips for managing stress:
- Take five. Take a deep breath and relax. Even five minutes of taking care of yourself can be helpful.
- Be active. Take a walk, do some stretching exercises, or find another physical activity that works for you.
- Connect with others. Reach out to friends and family.
- Stick to a daily routine that includes rest, Exerciseand eat healthy.
- Ask friends, family and trusted organizations for support. Talk to others about your feelings. Reach out to clergy or other members of your faith community.
- Get help from a professional. Talk to one Healthcare providers about how you feel.
If you need immediate mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
More on the topic of stress and loneliness:
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