As we gear up to deck the halls and gather 'round tables laden with festive fare, the holiday season's joyful anticipation is often mingled with a less welcomed guest: stress. The University of Minnesota's family therapist and professor Tai Mendenhall recently opened up about how to navigate this nuanced time of year, offering sage advice on a spectrum of seasonal concerns.
The key to a smoother holiday experience might just be in the preamble. "In health care, we say it is better to prepare than it is to repair," Mendenhall told the University of Minnesota. He advises to carefully plan the holiday shuffle across family and friend groups, determine a clear budget and even suggests opting for a low-cost gift exchange to alleviate financial pressure. Moreover, Mendenhall recommends simplifying large family meals by preparing in advance and delegating tasks, to not just ease the burden but also to foster an inclusive and communal spirit.
It's a common refrain during the end-of-year festivities — feelings of being overwhelmed, with stressors like congested airports, snowstorms, and touchy subjects at the dinner table reaching crescendo levels. Mendenhall acknowledges this reality, saying "It is very normal." Slow down, he counsels, and give yourself permission to be less than perfect. He advocates for maintaining healthy habits and recalling what the holidays are really about.
For those facing the pangs of loneliness, Mendenhall provides both understanding and practical guidance. "Ironically, you are not alone in feeling lonely," he expressed. In a poignant reminder that the essence of the season can sometimes sharply contrast our own experiences, he encourages people to proactively reach out to friends, seek community, and to creatively express oneself. Limiting energy-drainers like excessive social media use, and not hesitating to seek therapy if needed, are also part of his toolkit for personal wellness.
Mendenhall also touched on the artful juggle of multiple commitments during the holidays. It's about working as a team with partners, being flexible, and setting boundaries to ensure that commitments are manageable. Creativity and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances are paramount.
The College of Education and Human Development where Mendenhall teaches is committed to creating opportunities and addressing a wide range of societal challenges. The Couple and Family Therapy Program aims to train future practitioners in practices that nurture families and communities, both locally and globally. Mendenhall highlights the program's focus on leveraging collaborative partnerships to promote care strategies fostering positive change.
As the season's hustle and bustle beckon, Mendenhall's insights offer a blueprint for navigating the holiday highs and lows. His message is a reminder that, amidst the cheer, being mindful of our health — mental, physical, and emotional — can truly make for a happy holiday.
