Philly Named Among Top 10 Most Stressed Out Cities This Holiday

The holidays are coming in HOT in Philly AND South Jersey. One second you’re eating Halloween candy for dinner and the next you’re panic-adding gifts to carts you don’t even remember opening. According to a new survey from Rula, Philly residents aren’t just stressed… they’re basically leading the parade. That means South Jersey, too.

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The city ranks among the top 10 most stressed in the U.S. during the holiday season, which honestly… tracks.

Family Tension? Political Drama? Philly’s Got It ALL

A full 63% of Philadelphians say family tensions are their biggest holiday stressor, landing us 9th highest nationwide. Add in the 21% who get stressed by political disagreements, and you’ve basically got the plot of every awkward dinner ever.

READ MORE: South Jersey, The 51st State?

But it’s not just the people. Everyone’s stressed by the vibe too. 56% say the pressure to feel festive is overwhelming, placing Philly 15th highest in the country. 44% say overeating and unhealthy habits get to them, which feels extremely relatable for me especially at the moment.

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Philly Protects Its Peace… And Blows Its Budget

Here’s the good news: we’re not afraid to bail when it’s too much. 42% of Philadelphia residents admit they’ve skipped a holiday event to protect their mental health, which honestly deserves applause in my book.

READ MORE: NJ's Most Basic Dunkin Order EVER

The wallet part? Less cheerful. Philadelphians (and South Jersey by extension) overspend by an average of $304, the 5th highest holiday budget blowout in the U.S.

With gifts, travel, food, events, and the occasional “treat yourself” moment, it’s no wonder credit cards start sweating by December.

Photo by Artem Kniaz on Unsplash

It’s Okay to Slow Down, Ya Know…

If the holiday season feels like a lot, you’re in good company. This season, our region is giving big “prioritize your mental health” energy. Whether that means setting boundaries, skipping the chaos, or giving yourself grace, you deserve a happy and peaceful holiday this year.

LOOK: Retail workers share 21 of the worst things customers do, especially during holidays

Buzzfeed conducted a list of comments left by retail employees about what they hate most about certain customers, especially during the holidays. Here's what they had to say, plus additional comments provided by customer service retail workers in New Jersey.

Gallery Credit: Mike Brant