Holiday Stress? Discover the Importance of Alone Time for Self-Care
The Holidays: Joyful for Some, Stressful for Others
The holidays are often hailed as the “most wonderful time of the year.” But for many, they can be downright overwhelming. Endless to-do lists, constant social obligations, and the pressure to keep up with traditions can leave you feeling completely drained. It’s enough to make you pause and wonder—why does something meant to bring joy feel so exhausting?
A recent national survey of 1,000 Americans, conducted by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine, sheds light on this. Nearly half (46%) of respondents shared that they get less alone time during the holidays, while 56% said having enough alone time is crucial for their mental health.
Why Alone Time Matters
Dr. Sophie Lazarus, a clinical psychologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, emphasizes that the quality of your alone time matters as much as the quantity. Whether you prefer solitude in a quiet room or a bustling coffee shop, what’s important is how you spend that time to recharge mentally and physically.
“In today’s busy world, even a few minutes alone can allow your nervous system, mind, and body to settle,” Lazarus explained. “This brief pause can be vital, especially when chronic stress takes a toll on our well-being.”
Simple Tips to Prioritize Yourself
Making yourself a priority doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Dr. Lazarus, who specializes in mindfulness and stress management, suggests small but impactful changes to your daily routine.
- Leave your phone behind: Consider placing your phone in another room to avoid distractions during alone time.
- Steal a moment in your car: Take a couple of minutes to decompress in your car before picking up the kids or stepping into the house after work.
These small adjustments can provide a mental reset, helping you stay present during the holiday chaos.
Flexibility is Key
Dr. Lazarus acknowledges that not everyone unwinds in the same way. “One size doesn’t fit all,” she said. “It’s about being flexible and finding a balance that works for you.”
For some, alone time might mean actual solitude, like staying in or meditating. For others, it could involve being in a public space, like a park or a movie theatre, without the pressure of interacting socially.
Alone Time Without the Guilt
It’s easy to feel selfish for taking time for yourself, but Dr. Lazarus assures us that this isn’t the case. “Prioritizing yourself in the moment doesn’t mean you always put yourself above others. It’s about finding a healthy balance.”
Even small moments of intentional alone time can make a big difference, allowing you to manage the holidays with more ease and joy.
About the Survey
This survey, conducted by SSRS on its Opinion Panel Omnibus platform, included 1,004 participants across the U.S. Data was collected from October 4–7, 2024, using online (n=974) and telephone (n=30) methods. With a margin of error of ±3.5 percentage points, the results highlight the growing importance of self-care during the holiday season.
Take this as your reminder: It’s okay to hit pause and focus on what you need to thrive during the holidays. Sometimes, a little alone time is the best gift you can give yourself.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
