Holiday season to raise elevated levels of stress

By Staff Writer

Stress is common throughout the year, but during the holiday season, the level can elevate. High amounts of stress can result in substance abuse for some individuals and even dependency. Rehabilitation facilities can help those who find themselves addicted to substances as a result of stress. However, there are a few things people can keep in mind this Thanksgiving to avoid anxiety.

The Wednesday before the holiday is the biggest travel day of the year, according to KJRH-TV. For families traveling by plane, packing strictly necessities can cut down on baggage fees. Spending more money than necessary can immediately result in stress.

For those who are traveling by car, doing a check-up on the automobile can save time and hassle in the future. Getting a flat tire without a spare or forgetting to check fluids before leaving can result in a stressful event later down the road.

One-third of Americans say they are living under elevated levels of stress, according to a 2007 study by the American Psychological Association. Fatigue, headaches and muscle tension can all directly result from stress and anxiety. Rehabilitation facilities and counseling can help individuals who find difficulty managing their stress, especially during the holiday season.