Our life is almost measured by the frantic pace of our steps and the number of tasks we manage to cross off on an endless list. Time that once an ally, has become a silent tyrant, controlling our days and leaving us little space to simply be there. Perhaps Christmas time, that symbolizes family, love and full presence, is the right moment to stop and think: what price are we paying for a life lived on the run? The schedules we keep are often a reflection of a real need: the work we accumulate to pay the bills, to provide stability for our family or to avoid failing to meet imposed expectations. But, in the middle of this marathon, we lack time for what matters most. There is no time to spend time with our children without rushing, to listen to what they have to say, without keeping an eye on the clock. There is no time to be with our companions, to share a look of admiration, a touch of affection. We lack time for ourselves, to take care of our body and mind, to respect our tiredness and recognize our fragility . Exhaustion is not just physical. It’s also emotional. How many times do we postpone the long hug that could cure a bad day? How many times do we forget the power of a contemplative look, of a smile shared without words? We live in a world that pushes us towards constant productivity, but we neglect the emotional fertility that comes from simply being with each other. And this has profound consequences, at all stages of life. I share with you what my professional life has shown me… In children They are increasingly shaped by busy schedules, extracurricular activities, colorful calendars and goals to achieve become part of your everyday life. And these rob them of the simplicity of childhood, the spontaneity of playing, the time to dream without pressure. And many parents, exhausted at the end of the day, can't even offer them a peaceful night. In teenagers Teenagers experience a painful paradox. They are more connected than ever through social media, where they can feel like they belong in many places, but at the same time, they carry a growing emptiness in the real world. The brightness of the screens contrasts with the lack of a place that genuinely welcomes them, where they can be vulnerable without fear of judgement. Many seek comfort in likes and immediate messages, but what they really need is the human touch. An open conversation with their parents, a shoulder to cry on, a moment in which they feel truly seen. When this parental support is not there, a sadness sets in that is reflected in a blank stare and silent anguish. It is essential to give teenagers a sense of belonging and security again, even when conflict predominates at home, creating spaces where they can discover who they are, away from unrealistic expectations and the pressure to meet impossible standards. In young adults and adults These carry the weight of a world that demands constant performance. The search for financial and personal stability pushes them into a race where there is no visible finish line. The result? Relationships that become dysfunctional, moments of complicity exchanged for discussions about pending bills or tasks, dreams postponed by the need to survive. In older people And when we finally get to the stage where time should be kinder, the elderly are often alone. They are forgotten by families who do not have time to visit them, to listen to their stories, to give them the dignity of a warm presence or they feel that they are a burden to others. And this is reflected in a cruel way: loneliness becomes a permanent and unwanted companion, silent but devastating, with serious consequences for mental health. Without regular human contact and affection from those they love, many face problems of depression, anxiety and a deep feeling of abandonment. What can we do? Maybe we can offer... Less activities and more hugs to our children. Less divided tasks and more admiring looks to our companions. Less virtual messages and more real meetings to our friends. For our elderly, surprise them with visits or a treat; more phone calls, listen to their stories and involve them in family activities. Taking a break at Christmas time can be a challenge. But it's doing something different, choosing to just be there! Be complete! Being there to observe, feel and share. The true magic of Christmas is in the reunion. With the other. With the family. May Christmas teach us to go slower, to look into the eyes of those we love and to build memories that last, even after the calendar turns to a new year. Here are Christmas wishes from a psychologist who is also frustrated by the speed at which life goes by, but who struggles to take care of herself, her family and those she cares for every day in a balanced and healthy way. Author : Yennyfer Katerine Martins Meet the psychology clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
