While celebratory, the holiday season is challenging for many, especially those managing autoimmune conditions. Practice managers play a crucial role in educating their staff and patients about the impact of stress on their health and providing actionable solutions to navigate the season effectively.
Why Stress Matters for Autoimmune Health
Stress can trigger significant flare-ups in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis. According to job site Monster’s research, 61% of U.S. workers report that their mental health declines during the holidays, with 44% feeling more stressed than usual and 17% experiencing overall well-being deterioration. This stress, combined with autoimmune conditions, can exacerbate inflammation, fatigue, and pain.
Moreover, a report from Aflac highlights that over half (57%) of U.S. employees are experiencing at least moderate burnout—a phenomenon that often worsens during the holiday season due to year-end deadlines, financial pressures, and personal obligations.
How Practices Can Help Patients Manage Holiday Stress
- Educate Patients on the Stress-Inflammation Link: Share the physiological impact of stress on autoimmune conditions. Use newsletters, social media, or waiting room materials to highlight this connection and offer practical tips for stress management.
- Promote Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Suggest activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Provide links to free or low-cost apps such as Headspace or Calm to make mindfulness accessible.
- Encourage Routine Adherence: Remind patients to stick to their treatment plans, attend appointments, and take prescribed medications. Offer flexible scheduling to accommodate holiday commitments.
- Leverage Community Resources: Highlight local or virtual support groups where patients can connect with others facing similar challenges.
- Communicate Empathy and Support: Reinforce that your practice understands its challenges. Personalized messages or festive health guides can make patients feel valued and supported.
By proactively addressing holiday stress and its impact on health, practices can empower patients to enjoy the season while prioritizing their well-being. Sharing these insights can strengthen the patient-practice relationship and encourage better health outcomes.
Tags: NORM, private practice, rheumatology, Support Patients Posted by
