How to Survive the Holidays: 3 Tips for a Stress-Free Season
The holiday season can bring a flood of emotions. While it's a time for joy and togetherness, it's also common to feel holiday stress and overwhelmed by expectations.
Whether the holidays are a cherished time with family or a season where you feel lonely, it’s possible to create a holiday experience that feels meaningful and joyful.
Here are some strategies to help you reduce holiday stress, stay present, and actually enjoy this season:
1. Cultivate Peace, Gratitude, and Perspective
Holiday Journaling for Clarity and Calm
You don’t need a fancy journal or a 30-minute ritual to benefit from journaling. Taking even a few minutes each day to write down your thoughts can help reduce stress and keep you grounded. Start with a short list of the top three things you look forward to this holiday season. Write down any worries, too, so they’re on paper—not constantly on your mind. Holiday journaling can provide clarity, relieve anxiety, and help you stay focused on the positive moments.
2. Practice Service and Kindness
Finding Peace by Giving Back During the Holidays
Holiday stress often stems from focusing too much on personal pressures. By stepping outside our own world, we can gain perspective and experience the true spirit of the season. Volunteering at a homeless shelter, donating to local charities, or giving gift cards to teachers are small yet impactful ways to give back. You can volunteer solo or invite friends and family to join you. Acts of service, no matter how small, can make the holidays brighter for you and others.
3. Simplify and Scale Back
Focus on What Matters Most This Holiday Season
It’s easy to get caught up in social media pressures, feeling the need to meet the “picture-perfect holiday” standards. But holiday happiness doesn’t come from doing everything. Choose the top three holiday activities that bring you joy—whether that’s baking cookies, seeing a holiday play, or watching your favorite Christmas movies. Prioritize these activities, and let go of the pressure to “do it all.” A simplified holiday season can bring more peace and fulfillment.
The holidays shouldn’t feel like something you’re merely surviving. They’re an opportunity for genuine connection, gratitude, and celebration. If you feel anxious or overwhelmed by holiday stress, reflect on ways to realign with what matters most for you and your family. Memories and past experiences can also influence how you feel about the season. If you’re struggling with grief, loneliness, or anxiety, consider reaching out for support. You don’t have to go through the holidays alone.
Disclaimer: This is in no way a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or mental health services. This is for educational purposes only and should be in used only in conjunction in working with a licensed mental health professional. Reading this blog or responding to it does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. If you are looking for a local mental health professional feel free to use the contact tab to request an appointment or search google for local therapists in your area. If this is a mental health emergency and you need immediate assistance please call 911 or your county’s crisis line to speak to a mental health professional.
