A noticeable portion of Russians, about 43 percent, report feeling stressed as Christmas approaches. The most unsettling finding from a December survey conducted by the online health management platform Budu and the express delivery operator CDEK, with results reviewed by socialbites.ca, highlights the era’s mounting pressures on ordinary people in the Russian Federation.
The dominant worry for December centers on workload. Roughly one in four respondents, 26 percent, identified heavy duties at work as the principal issue. For many, year-end tasks pile up, and meeting deadlines becomes a real test of time and stamina. In response, 14 percent of participants set the goal of finalizing all business matters before the month ends, underscoring a collective push to wrap up loose ends and move into the new year with a clear slate.
Another common stressor during the pre-Christmas period involves the shopping frenzy. About one in six respondents feel overwhelmed by crowds in stores and shopping malls, coupled with rising prices for holiday items such as ornaments and souvenirs. Yet, there is a practical counterpoint: more than half of Russians, 53 percent, begin gathering everything they need only within the week leading up to the holiday, signaling a tight but focused shopping approach rather than panic buying.
Weather and daylight, while not major concerns, do leave a mark. The perception of nuisance is low: only 9 percent find snow and muddy surfaces uncomfortable, and 5 percent dislike the shorter daylight hours. Traffic jams, a common urban irritant, worry a modest 9 percent of respondents, suggesting that transit pauses or delays do not dominate the holiday stress landscape for most people.
As the New Year draws nearer, many people anticipate positive moments as well as moments of worry. Overall, 38 percent of participants expect something good, while 37 percent anticipate joy. Yet 20 percent remain concerned about time running out—an echo of the broader sentiment that a large share, 82 percent, feels pressed for time and unable to accomplish everything they want. In contrast, only 18 percent feel comfortable because they have their plans largely in place.
When it comes to activities before the New Year, people express clear priorities. Nearly half, 45 percent, want to devote time to decorating the home, dressing up, and placing the Christmas tree—rituals that symbolize the season for many. Another third place importance on addressing medical needs, using the December window to see doctors or obtain care before the holiday period. A quarter consider it essential to settle debts, while 43 percent view the holidays and the upcoming break as a long-awaited opportunity to relax and unwind after a demanding year.
Earlier assessments showed a notable trend: many Russians reduce the cost of celebrating the New Year. This pragmatic approach reflects a desire to enjoy the season without overspending, even as the festivities remain meaningful and inclusive for families and communities looking to share moments of happiness and togetherness during the holiday season.