Someone Asks People To Share “Juicy Thanksgiving Drama”, And 50 Deliver

Stress is linked to a number of harmful side effects, such as worse sleep and increased skin problems. However, with Thanksgiving and the approaching holiday season, it can feel almost unavoidable.

So we contacted psychiatrist and author Pamela Cantor, M.D., to talk about managing it. "The holidays can be reminders of someone we have loved and lost, and of physical distance from family and friends," Cantor told Bored Panda.

"They can also be times for taking stock of our careers and relationships, of what feels like success, or where we may be falling short. And anyone traveling during the holidays knows that dealing with traffic, bad weather, or jam-packed planes, trains, and buses can be very stressful!"

In 2022, the drivers of stress for this time of year included worries like affording holiday gifts (50%) and meals (39%) as well as finding and securing holiday gifts (37%). But while we're running from one store to the other, it can be a good idea to take a break, spend some time with yourself, and forget about material possessions.

"Show gratitude and practice altruism," Cantor, who studies how we develop, learn, and reach our potential and can help others reach theirs, suggested. "Take a few moments to think about, maybe even write down, what you are most thankful for. It could be your health, a roof over your head, or friends you take walks with."

"Then choose something to do for someone else. Prepare a meal and deliver it to someone living alone, bring warm coats or toiletries to people in need, or make a donation to a cause you believe in. Doing these things reduces stress and boosts mood," the physician explained.