Coping with Holiday Stress: Mental Health Strategies for a Calmer Season
12/03/25
Author: Hannah Clark, Sherwood Psychology
The holiday season is often described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, it can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. Financial pressures, family expectations, grief, or loneliness can leave people feeling overwhelmed rather than joyful.
The good news? You’re not alone, and there are effective mental health strategies that can help you cope with holiday stress and create space for peace this holiday season.
Why Do the Holidays Feel So Stressful?
Understanding common triggers can help normalize your experience and provide clarity.
Some of the reasons holidays often feel overwhelming include:
- High Expectations: The pressure to create the “perfect” holiday.
- Financial Strain: The cost of gifts, travel, and social events can add up.
- Family Dynamics: Conflict, loss, or strained relationships may resurface.
- Loneliness: Feeling isolated or disconnected during a time of “togetherness.”
- Disrupted Routines: Changes in sleep, exercise, eating, and drinking patterns that impact mood, personal goals, and resilience.
Practical Coping Strategies for Managing Holiday Stress
1. Set Realistic Expectations
Chances are, your holidays won’t look like they do in the movies, and that’s okay. Focus less on material things and creating the “perfect” holiday, and more on what matters most to you, whether that be connection, rest, or meaningful traditions.
2. Protect Your Mental and Emotional Energy
Saying “no” to extra commitments isn’t selfish; it’s healthy. Protect your energy and peace. You can set boundaries with time, money, or relationships.
3. Maintain Healthy Routines
Prioritizing maintaining a healthy amount of sleep, movement, downtime, meals, and alcohol consumption can help you maintain overall balance during the holidays.
For parents, helping your children maintain some of their usual routines can also help reduce stress for both you and them.
4. Create a Budget (for Time and Finances)
Planning holiday spending ahead of time can help you reduce financial anxiety. Likewise, don’t overbook your schedule yourself—leave room for downtime!
5. Stay Connected
If you’re feeling lonely, reach out! Connect with a friend or family member, join a community group, or volunteer. Connection can help support your mental health during the holidays.
6. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness
You can incorporate grounding techniques such as journaling, mindfulness, or simply setting aside quiet moments to decompress wherever possible.
Even small actions like taking time for daily walks or practicing deep breathing can help reduce stress.
Supporting Your Mental Health During the Holidays
Mixed emotions during the holiday season are normal—joy and sadness can coexist. If you notice your stress turning into anxiety, depression, or hopelessness, professional support can make a difference.
Therapy before, during, or after the holidays can help you:
- Develop coping tools tailored to your situation.
- Manage grief, stress, loneliness, or family conflict in healthier ways.
- Approach the season feeling more self-assured, calmer, and resilient.
When to Consider Professional Help
If holiday stress feels constant, unmanageable, or triggers painful memories or emotions, reaching out to a therapist can provide relief. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or something else, therapy is a safe space to explore what you’re experiencing and learn strategies that can help.
Our clinic is here to support you through the holiday season and beyond. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, we invite you to reach out. Together, we can create a plan to help you cope and thrive.
Conclusion
The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. By setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and seeking support when needed, you can reduce stress and nurture your mental health this season.
Remember: it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. You deserve peace, rest, and support.
