A Kansas State University health expert emphasizes the importance of maintaining hope to keep the holidays positive and avoid unnecessary stress. Elaine Johannes, a community health professor, explains that hope plays a key role in building resilience, which helps individuals cope with stress and adversity. By reflecting on challenges and recognizing the support of others, people can grow stronger and better prepared for future difficulties.

Holiday gatherings often bring their own set of challenges, particularly when differing opinions arise among family members. Recent research from the American Psychological Association shows that Americans value respectful dialogue as a way to manage conflict. Johannes highlights the importance of listening and fostering constructive conversations to strengthen connections within families and communities.

She also offers five strategies for managing holiday stress: take time to process feelings, identify stress sources, lean on support systems, check in with affected family members, and prioritize mental and physical health. These practices can help families navigate the season and build resilience for the future.