THE PRESSURE TO SHINE DURING FESTIVE SEASON:PROTECTING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

The holidays are often seen as a season of joy, family, and celebration. Yet, for many, they have become a period filled with pressure to meet societal and cultural expectations. Here in Igbo land, it’s no secret that the festive season is marked by showcasing wealth and a taste for the finer things in life. While the Igbo people are celebrated for their achievements and class, there’s an undeniable flip side—the toll it takes on those unable to “measure up."

The Holiday Pressure

December and the New Year bring a unique type of stress for some: the need to present a certain lifestyle. Lavish spending, extravagant celebrations, and constant comparisons have created a competitive culture.?

While it's natural to want to celebrate in style, we must ask ourselves—at what cost?

The pressure to showcase wealth during this period can weigh heavily on our mental health. For those unable to afford the luxury of this season, feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and even depression can surface. Constantly comparing oneself to others leads to a distorted sense of self-worth, where value is tied to material possessions rather than personal growth, love, and family.

The Negative Impact on Mental Health

When people stretch themselves financially or emotionally to “fit in,” they often experience:

1. Increased Stress: Trying to meet unrealistic expectations can leave individuals overburdened and exhausted.
2. Anxiety and Depression: Focusing on what you don’t have instead of what you do can trigger feelings of inadequacy.
3. Financial Strain: Overspending during the holidays often leads to debt, causing long-term stress that outlasts the festivities.
4. Broken Relationships: The pressure to impress can create tension among family and friends, straining bonds that the season should strengthen.

A Reminder: It’s About Togetherness, Not Competition

Here’s one piece of advice as we celebrate: Christmas and New Year are not competitions. They’re opportunities to connect with loved ones, share laughter, and create memories. If you can’t afford lavish gifts or grand celebrations, focus on what truly matters—quality time and meaningful interactions.

Take a moment to reflect on what the season is really about: joy, love, and togetherness. Simplify your celebrations if needed and remind yourself that your worth isn’t measured by how much you spend or how well you can keep up with others.

Looking Ahead

Life continues after December. Don’t burden yourself with unnecessary stress or unrealistic expectations. Let’s normalize embracing simplicity and protecting our mental well-being. Remember, the real wealth lies in the happiness and peace you cultivate-not in the fleeting impressions of a festive season.

Let’s step into the New Year with a renewed focus on self-care, intentional living, and an understanding that our mental health matters more than any material display.

Your dreams and happiness are valid, with or without the glitter of the festive season.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!