“In this season of heightened stress, behavioral health concerns will likely increase. But health plans and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can encourage a different approach to the holidays and new year for improved wellness.”
Amy Kazmierczak – Chief People Officer
The holiday season can bring a familiar mix of joy, anticipation, excitement…and stress. Year-end financial anxieties, family commitments and the desire to start anew in January can create a period that feels less like celebration and more like survival. In this season of heightened stress, member behavioral health concerns will likely increase. Sixty-four percent of individuals with mental illness report worsening conditions during the holidays. But health plans and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can encourage a different approach to the holidays and new year for improved wellness.
Adjusting expectations
The holiday season comes with societal expectations, many of which are financially draining. Gift-giving, expensive travel and hosting responsibilities can drive up costs, causing financial stress. It’s okay to say no to traditions or plans that aren’t on budget or that add unnecessary pressure. Share with members how they can step back and reconsider which expectations truly serve them, and which can be modified or eliminated.
Members can consider a smaller holiday gathering or a gift exchange among family rather than buying for each person. There are also alternative ways to show appreciation like homemade gifts, sharing time or volunteering. Small shifts in holiday plans can ease financial burdens and lead to more meaningful, less stressful celebrations.
Simplifying the financial to-do list
Planning for the end of the year can feel overwhelming, with expenses like holiday spending, upcoming tax preparation and the push to meet outstanding financial responsibilities. Share resources for members to prioritize financial goals so they can make a list of only what absolutely needs to be done this year, such as contributing to a retirement account or setting up a savings plan.
Taking control of financial stress can be about setting modest goals. Instead of focusing on big, intimidating changes, financial objectives can be broken down into manageable actions. Small steps like opening a high-yield savings account for next year’s holiday budget or setting up automated savings transfers for January can help members enter the new year with confidence.
Embracing a different holiday path
Many feel guilty if their holiday looks different from what is expected, but choosing alternative holiday plans doesn’t make the celebrations any less meaningful. This is especially important when it comes to balancing time with family or work obligations. Lucet Care Navigator Michelle Nordquest advises, “Focus on what truly matters. Holidays don’t have to be stressful — we’re able to redefine in our own life what makes them meaningful.”
Members may wish to opt for a quieter holiday season to focus on self-care. The idea isn’t to follow a prescribed way of celebrating, but rather to align the holidays with what brings peace for mental wellness.
Planning for the new year with mindfulness, not pressure
Encourage a shift in focus from a pressure-filled list of resolutions to mindful intentions that support well-being. Instead of setting rigid financial goals, consider focusing on financial habits that build long-term stability, like tracking expenses or regularly reviewing budgets. EAPs can work with members to set achievable financial targets that build confidence. Lucet’s Shawna Sielert (Licensed Professional Counselor) shares more on how to manage new year’s resolutions with a healthier mindset.
Prioritizing mental health
Year-end financial worries can make it easy to overlook mental health, but prioritizing both can make a world of difference. This rings true as year-end work deadlines, holiday spending and social pressures converge.
We are not alone in our preparations for the new year. Whether it’s joining a financial planning group or seeking mental health resources, a strong support system can make a substantial impact on members’ year-end stress. Connect with Lucet to learn more about our Employee Assistance Program and how our Navigate & Connect solution can assess members in distress before they reach crisis.
Amy Kazmierczak is chief people officer at Lucet.
