As the spooky season approaches, those of us who choose to celebrate Halloween may look forward to the fun and excitement that October brings. Haunted houses, pumpkin carvings, corn mazes, trick-or-treating— all the fall activities that you may partake in to celebrate Halloween can be exciting; however, the preparations, social interactions, and high expectations surrounding the holiday can become overwhelming, more like a chore than a celebration. If you find yourself feeling stressed or anxious about the expectations that Halloween brings, you’re not alone! In this post, we’ll explore ways to enjoy Halloween and manage the stress and anxiety you may have about this holiday.
Identify Sources of Stress
Halloween can bring unique pressures that might affect one’s mental and emotional well-being. Some common sources of stress during Halloween may include:
Social Expectations: The pressure to attend events or gatherings, dress in costumes, and pay for the many Halloween activities can be stressful.
Preparations: From decorating your home, buying candy in bulk, constructing elaborate costumes, and preparing for parties, the workload can pile up quickly.
Interacting with Others: For those who experience social anxiety, the increase in socializing and interacting with strangers (like trick-or-treaters) or those dressed in terrifying costumes, can feel daunting and haunting.
By recognizing what is causing your stress, you can take the first step toward managing it. Ask yourself, "What aspects of Halloween make me feel overwhelmed?"
Tips for Managing Stress
Now that you’ve identified some sources of your possible Halloween-related stress, here are a few practical strategies to help you cope with the spooky-scaries.
Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say “no” to events or activities that feel too overwhelming, too expensive, or not fun at all. Honor your limits and focus on what brings you joy!
Prioritize Self-Care: Ensure that you’re taking care of yourself by resting, eating well, and staying hydrated, especially if you have a busy schedule. Halloween candy can be a great sweet treat, but overdo it and you may get more tricks than treats this October. Avoid the stomach ache and practice moderation.
Plan Ahead: Try to spread out your preparations over time instead of cramming them into one day. Make a to-do list and break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps. If you plan ahead, instead of standing in an hour-long line at Spirit Halloween on October 30th, you could be enjoying hot cocoa as you watch a spooky movie!
Practice Mindfulness: Take time to breathe and stay grounded. Mindful breathing exercises and art activities can help you stay calm even when facing the chaos of the Halloween season.
Limit Social Media: Sometimes seeing other people’s costumes or party setups can be exciting and inspiring, while other times it can trigger feelings of inadequacy. If it is making you feel anxious, limit your time on social media and focus on the aspects of Halloween that you enjoy!
Enjoying Traditions
Halloween traditions can be a wonderful way to connect with others and enjoy the season. Whether it's watching Halloween movies, making pumpkin bread, or dressing up in costumes, you can take part in the traditions that you love while managing stress. Keep in mind that you can enjoy these activities at your own pace, in any way that feels right to you! If attending a crowded party feels like too much, try hosting a small, intimate gathering or enjoying a quiet night in!
Reflecting on the Experience
After Halloween has passed, take some time to reflect on how you felt during the holiday. Ask yourself:
What parts of Halloween did I enjoy the most?
Were there moments when I felt overwhelmed or stressed?
How can I make adjustments for next year to reduce the season-related stress and anxiety and enhance enjoyment?
This reflection can help you gain insight into how you can better manage Halloween events to make the season as enjoyable as possible!
Taking Control of Your Halloween Experience
As Halloween approaches, take a moment to check in with yourself. What traditions or activities do you want to engage in, and how can you do so in a way that prioritizes your mental health? Try one of the stress management techniques mentioned in this post, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plans if necessary. By doing so, you can enjoy Halloween without letting stress or anxiety take control!
Let this Halloween be about what matters most to you, and take steps to make it a fun, stress-free celebration!
Happy Halloween!
Writte by:
Grace Harding
Creative Art Therapist Intern
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