Today is the day that festive fatigue first kicks in – as parties, lunches, and shopping trips take their toll. Research of 2,000 adults, who celebrate Yuletide, found 52 percent are running out of Christmas cheer by December 19.
By this point, respondents have typically been to two parties, two lunches, and slogged through four shopping trips. And 21 percent have watched at least two Nativity plays, while the same number have already welcomed the in-laws around.
As a result, four in 10 feel they have hardly had any time to look after themselves, as they shift focus to thinking about loved ones.
The research, commissioned by Specsavers, which has named today “Yule Tired Day”, also found social obligations and long overdue catch-ups take over – leaving 35 percent behind on their Christmas shopping, and 31 percent yet to send any Christmas cards.
However, for 40 percent, the festivities officially start to take their toll when they take their foot off the gas at work.
Many admit they are trying to hide their fatigue in their job – with 18 percent opting to work remotely, while 11 percent turn their camera off during video calls, and 10 percent are choosing to hide behind their glasses to mask their bleary eyes.
Shopping for presents (42 percent), cleaning the house ready to welcome people over (36 percent), and preparing Christmas dinner (29 percent), were among the things considered most tiring this month.
Meanwhile, travelling to visit family (23 percent), work Christmas parties (13 percent), and hosting the in-laws (11 percent), also made the list.
As a result of their busy December calendar, 47 percent revealed they find it more exhausting than any other month.
More than a quarter (27 percent) are having to turn down social plans throughout the month, due to how hectic their schedule already is, while the same number will be trying to avoid social gatherings in January, in an effort to recover.
The research, which was conducted via OnePoll, found 57 percent feel their eyes are the biggest give away when they’re feeling tired.
Headaches (30 percent), sore or itchy eyes (21 percent), and difficulty focusing (15 percent), are also among the symptoms people experience during the busy festive season.
Director of Clinical Services, Giles Edmonds, at Specsavers, said: “December is a busy time of year, with lots of social festivities to cram in – so it’s no wonder that by the middle of the month, people are starting to feel the effects.
“The combination of holiday preparations, year-end work deadlines, and festive gatherings, can take a toll on energy levels.
“For many, the eyes are also the biggest giveaway that they’re not feeling 100 percent, so people might be trying to hide their tiredness with glasses, if they wear them – or even sunglasses.
“Late-night celebrations, coupled with our use of screens for work or to watch Christmas telly, can contribute to eye fatigue, making it particularly important to look after your eyes during this time.”
