The holiday season is often synonymous with joy and celebration, but for caregivers, this time can also amplify stress levels. Dr. Robert Neel, a professor in the Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Cincinnati's College of Medicine and director of the ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic at the University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute, shed light on this phenomenon in a recent AARP article.
In his discussion, Neel pointed out that caregivers are often in a state of high alert, which can cause stress hormones like norepinephrine and cortisol to skyrocket during the festive season, these hormones are responsible for raising alertness and maintaining the body's endurance against fatigue, leading to a variety of health issues, including disrupted sleep and weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. In his interview, Dr. Neel explained, “Norepinephrine heightens alertness and raises blood pressure and heart rate, while cortisol keeps the body pushing through fatigue," as reported by UC News. However, the emotional landscape isn't entirely bleak for caregivers during these times.
The AARP article also highlighted that the holiday season has the potential to increase "feel-good" chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which are linked with feelings of connection, comfort, and pleasure. These positive chemical reactions can play a significant role in counterbalancing the negative effects of stress hormones. Dr. Neel advised finding opportunities to increase these beneficial chemicals by engaging in rewarding activities.
"The key is to find ways to boost the ‘feel-good’ chemicals and trigger those moments of joy," Dr. Neel told AARP via UC News, explaining the importance of physical contact and companionship, a hug from a loved one, or spending time with a pet can significantly enhance one's mood. Finding joy while caregiving through the holidays is a balancing act, one that involves attentiveness to both the stress and joy triggers that come with the season—knowing that while stress hormones may be in play, there are actionable ways to encourage those moments that spark joy.
