Authored by: Dr Karina de Bruin, Managing Director, JvR Academy
Most people associate the upcoming festive season with feelings of happiness, celebrations, relaxation and an opportunity to spend time with our loved ones. Previous research has shown that mere thinking about spending time with family and friends during the holiday season leads to positive feelings. But, while most of us cannot wait to say goodbye to the office, this time of year can be a very lonely, stressful, and difficult time for others. In a recent online survey of more than 1,000 adults conducted by the AARP Foundation, a shocking 30% have indicated that they experienced feelings of loneliness during the holiday season over the last couple of years. What is equally concerning, is that more than 40% of adults indicated that in the past five years, they have worried about a family member or friend feeling lonely during the holiday period. Furthermore, people who suffer from depression often report more feelings of anxiety and helplessness during this time. In fact, various studies have reported a significant increase in the number of suicides and suicide attempts in the days following Christmas and during the New Year period. So, why do we see this increase in negative mood and suicides during a time that is supposed to evoke positive feelings? ‘The Broken Promise effect’ Most of us live in anticipation that the days surrounding Christmas and New Year will be filled with joy and laughter. However, for many, these festive days sadly seem to promise more than they can deliver, leaving these individuals disillusioned and disappointed.Also, the festivities may exacerbate loneliness in those who are not able to be with their families during these times. Excessive stress Holiday periods are very often marked by extra stress that results from family conflicts, increased alcohol use, and excessive spending. Not all family members get along equally well and the tension between some of them usually spill over to the rest of the family. Returning to work Most of us can identify with the so-called Sunday evening blues. These feelings are often more excessive at the end of holiday periods. It is interesting to note that suicide rates appear to be the highest at the beginning of a work week and decline as the week progresses. Research has also shown that there is an increase in suicide and suicide attempts at the start of a new year. For all of us, New Year means the end of the holiday season and the start of a new working year. Although it is a time of promise and fresh beginnings, it may also lead to a sense of hopelessness, especially when previous years left the promise unfulfilled. How does one then reduce the risks associated with stress and negative mood in the festive season? Self-awareness, impulse control, reality testing, and moderation are key to coping with stressors and avoiding negative feelings. The following basic suggestions may help to lift the moods and cope better during the festive season: • We all know that a healthy body is the foundation of a healthy mind. Enjoy the festive treats, but try to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Use alcohol in moderation and make sure you continue your normal exercise routines. It is also important to relax, rest and set enough time aside to catch up with lost sleep in the festive season. • Make sure you are in touch with your emotions. If you know that you are prone to negative thoughts and to feelings of isolation, actively plan to keep yourself busy and involve others in your life during this time. Volunteering with a charity service can foster positive feelings and open new social networks. Interpersonal relationships have proven to be one of the cornerstones of emotional well-being. • Have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the holidays. It is unlikely that your holiday will be perfect or without any stress. • Set a limit for your Christmas spending and leave your credit card at home when you go shopping. Over-spending will just create more financial stress for the New Year. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Rosa-Mari Le Roux, 060 995 6277, rosa-mari@thatpoint.co.za , www.atthatpoint.co.za ABOUT the JvR Africa Group: The JvR Africa Group of companies consists of JvR Psychometrics, JvR Consulting Psychologists, JvR Academy, and JvR Safety. With its head office situated in Johannesburg, the group conducts business nationally and across Sub-Saharan Africa. They work with test developers, consultants, and academic institutions all over the world and support a range of development opportunities and host events around People Development in Africa – a cause they feel is extremely important to the future of our continent. For more information on JvR Africa Group please visit: Website: https://jvrafricagroup.co.za/ LinkedIn: JvR Africa Group Facebook: The JvR Africa Group - People Development in Africa Twitter: JvR Africa Group YouTube: The JvR Africa Group
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Authored by: Dr Jopie de Beer, CEO, JvR Africa Group
The last few years and in particular 2018 have been very difficult and stressful for ordinary South Africans. It is well-known that stress in- and of itself is not always a bad thing. On a positive level it can motivate people to work harder or even be more innovative. When stress levels however become chronic and people feel that they have very little control over their lives and livelihood, it can cause burnout, despair, and physical illness. Human systems are not built for continuous stress and the buildup of stress hormones over time become harmful, affecting our cardio vascular- and immune systems, our memory, thoughts, and mood. December is the time when many South Africans leave on their annual summer holiday. Being able to take a break is critically important to try to retain emotional and physical wellness. Emotions need to calm down; and anger, frustration, and despair, if possible, should be replaced with relaxation, love, laughter, and fun. Try to cleanse yourself from the build-up and the effect of stress hormones and seek a sense of calmness, happiness, and hope. Make a conscious decision to use the holiday to replenish your physical and emotional energy. Challenge your thinking Very few of the South African challenges are within our control. The way we think is however within our control and is something we can work on. Instead of regarding South Africa as a ‘broken’ country, try to think of it as a country with opportunity. Change your thinking from one of criticizing or complaining, to trying to think of ways in which you can help/make a difference. Understand that all people are not like you Whilst fully recognizing how complex human beings are, the following examples may provide some perspective on how different we may be whilst on holiday. There are those who regard vacation as an ideal opportunity for meeting new people and having exciting experiences.This may be in total contrast to another who seeks quiet time to read, listen to music, and meditate. People also differ in how much control they take in planning and structuring their holiday. Some make lists, structure activities for every day, and keep a very close eye on spending. For these people a good holiday is one that has been well-planned and they may not take well to any last minute change in plans. For others a holiday is all about flexibility, freedom, and ‘going with the flow’; particularly if their work usually asks of them to be planned and scheduled, they cannot wait for the freedom of only doing what is necessary and being able to change their plans any time of the day. Regard these differences as interesting and even humorous rather than a reason for stress and conflict. Respect these differences and allow for people to relax according to their nature. If necessary ‘negotiate’ a compromise that could satisfy both parties. By understanding these differences, allowances can be made for both without allowing these personality styles to escalate into conflict. Talk about your differences and laugh about the benefits of both. Keep in mind that the purpose of being on holiday is to relax. ENDS MEDIA CONTACT: Rosa-Mari Le Roux, 060 995 6277, rosa-mari@thatpoint.co.za , www.atthatpoint.co.za ABOUT the JvR Africa Group: The JvR Africa Group of companies consists of JvR Psychometrics, JvR Consulting Psychologists, JvR Academy, and JvR Safety. With its head office situated in Johannesburg, the group conducts business nationally and across Sub-Saharan Africa. They work with test developers, consultants, and academic institutions all over the world and support a range of development opportunities and host events around People Development in Africa – a cause they feel is extremely important to the future of our continent. For more information on JvR Africa Group please visit: Website: https://jvrafricagroup.co.za/ LinkedIn: JvR Africa Group Facebook: The JvR Africa Group - People Development in Africa Twitter: JvR Africa Group YouTube: The JvR Africa Group |
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