Psychologists explained why many greet the New Year without joy and how to form a festive mood through self-care rather than social pressure.
According to surveys, more and more people feel a lack of festive spirit in December. Psychologist Ilya Akhmedov notes that this is a natural reaction of the psyche to the chronic stress and overload of recent months. Pressuring oneself to feel joy is pointless — it is more important to create a sense of safety and recovery.
Psychologist Olga Temirkhanova adds that attempts to meet external expectations often provoke apathy and a disconnection from internal feelings.
To maintain emotional well-being, experts recommend:
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taking care of basic needs — sleep, warmth, physical comfort, and rituals;
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lowering expectations for the holiday and allowing oneself a calm New Year;
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limiting exposure to distressing news;
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permitting oneself to feel any emotions — fatigue, sadness, or apathy.
It is also advisable not to summarize the year or make grand plans if one lacks the energy. Psychologists recommend focusing on internal experiences: watching a favorite movie, reading a book, or having deep conversations with loved ones, creating a warm and pleasant atmosphere without artificial joy.
