*WARNING: This podcast mentions suicide, sexual abuse & trauma and may be triggering.

Episode Summary

In this conversation, Lisa Sugarman and Natasha J Layton discuss the various pressures surrounding the holiday season, particularly focusing on the financial burdens that many families face.

They explore the emotional toll of trying to keep up with societal expectations, the importance of creating meaningful traditions, and practical tips for navigating the holidays without succumbing to financial stress. The discussion emphasizes the value of presence over presents and encourages listeners to prioritize what truly matters during the holiday season.

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Takeaways

• We want to broaden the conversation beyond just surviving mental illness.
• The financial burden of the holidays can add significant stress.
• It's important to navigate family dynamics during the holidays.
• Many families spend thousands on holiday celebrations.
• Social media can create pressure to keep up with others.
• Financial stress can take an emotional toll on parents.
• Creating meaningful traditions can be more valuable than expensive gifts.
• It's okay to prioritize what matters most during the holidays.
• Families should set realistic budgets for holiday spending.
• It's important to ask for support when feeling overwhelmed.

Chapters

00:00 Broadening the Conversation on Survival

00:30 Surviving the Financial Burden of the Holidays

02:47 Navigating Family Dynamics During the Holidays

05:09 The Cost of Holiday Celebrations

10:35 The Pressure of Keeping Up with Social Norms

15:51 The Emotional Toll of Financial Stress

20:41 Creating Meaningful Holiday Traditions

26:50 Practical Tips for Surviving Holiday Financial Stress

Mental Health Resources

• If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
• The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
• The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
• National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)

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See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.