From the highly evidenced-based field of psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, we have known for decades that the holidays in America are traditionally a time ripe for off-the-chart stressors and wide-spread emotional regression.
For those already challenged with health problems, or conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries or chronic pain, the additional stress of the holidays can quickly become overwhelming. Many of these conditions involve heightened stress vulnerability, meaning that a weakened capacity to cope with stress is already in place. What is required is an even more conscious effort to manage stress in order to remain buoyant during these festive times that invite regression on multiple levels.
Read more on Psychology Today.
