Dr. Rick Petronella

Navigating Stress: Elections, and the Holidays – It’s a Lot!

As we move into November, we find ourselves in a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. First, let’s
take a moment to acknowledge the recent presidential election and its winner. For some, this outcome
brings a profound sense of hope and excitement, while for others, it may evoke feelings of uncertainty or
frustration. I find myself pondering the peculiar intersection of politics, family, and the changing seasons.

It seems fitting to discuss this trifecta of stress that creeps back into our lives, It’s natural to feel a mix of
emotions as our country navigates these changes. Wherever you land on the political spectrum, I
encourage you to take a breath, connect with your community, and engage in honest, compassionate
conversations. Change can be daunting, but it often leads to growth and new opportunities.

Amidst political discussions, we are also stepping into the season of Thanksgiving. A time traditionally
filled with gratitude, this year may also bring its own set of challenges. For many families, the holiday
season can stir up a little extra stress. Thoughts of family gatherings, travel plans, or even the absence of
loved ones can weigh heavy on our hearts. It’s important to remind ourselves that it’s perfectly okay to
feel overwhelmed. This is a season meant for connection, and it’s perfectly acceptable to take things one
step at a time.

As we adjust to the clocks turning back and the days growing a bit shorter, let’s find comfort in these
cozy evenings. Perhaps it’s a chance to reflect, to find gratitude in the small moments, or to reach out to
those we hold dear. If you’re feeling the weight of the season, know that you’re not alone. Many of us
are finding new ways to celebrate or simply navigate the complexities of family dynamics and personal
expectations.

And speaking of connection, who could forget the exhilarating journey of the Los Angeles Dodgers during the World Series? As they claimed the championship title, Freddie Freeman shone as the Most Valuable Player—a true testament to hard work, resilience, and teamwork. It’s a reminder that, just like in
baseball and life, the greatest victories often come from our ability to uplift one another and work
towards a common goal. Let’s take a page from this experience: as we gather around our Thanksgiving
tables, let’s celebrate our victories, uplift each other, and foster a spirit of shared joy.

So this month, let’s allow ourselves the grace to feel, to connect, and to celebrate in whatever form it
may take for us. Whether you find yourself in a festive gathering or in a quiet space of reflection, may
you find peace and a renewed sense of hope.

Warmly,

Dr. Rick

Quiz: A Recipe for Stress How do you Manage Life and the Stress Around You?

True or False (Circle your answer)

1. Elections can create stress due to uncertainty and heightened emotional responses.
   True or False?
   
2. Thanksgiving is always stress-free because it’s a time for family gatherings and gratitude.
   True or False?
   
3. The time change in fall can disrupt sleep schedules and affect mood.
   True or False?
   
4. Ignoring your stress will make it go away.
   True or False?
   
5. Engaging in self-care activities can help reduce stress during busy seasons.
   True or False?
   
6. It’s better to keep feelings bottled up rather than discussing them with friends or family.
   True or False?
   
7. Eating healthy foods and staying hydrated have no impact on stress levels.
   True or False?
   
8. Setting realistic expectations for gatherings can help minimize stress.
   True or False?
   
9. Procrastination can increase stress levels as deadlines approach.
   True or False?
   
10. Finding humor in stressful situations can help lighten the mood.
    True or False?

How did you do? Remember, recognizing stressors and implementing proactive strategies can
help you manage everything from political tensions to family feasts. You’ve got this!

Score Your Answers

#1 Answer: True. The political climate can lead to anxiety and unease for many people.
#2 Answer: False. While Thanksgiving can be a joyous occasion, it can also lead to stress due
to family dynamics, travel plans, and cooking.
#3 Answer: True. Adjusting to the change can cause fatigue and irritability, which can add up
to stress.
#4 Answer: False. Acknowledging and addressing stress is crucial for effective management.
#5 Answer: True. Practicing self-care, whether through exercise, meditation, or hobbies, is
essential for mental well-being.
#6 Answer: False. Sharing feelings can help lighten the emotional load and provide support.
#7 Answer: False. What you eat and drink significantly affects your mood and stress
resilience.
#8 Answer: True. It’s important to be realistic about what you can manage during busy times,
which can alleviate pressure.
#9 Answer: True. Putting things off often leads to a last-minute rush, creating unnecessary
stress.
#10 Answer: True. Laughter is a great stress reliever and can help shift your perspective.