The holiday season is often called the most wonderful time of the year, but for many, it can feel more overwhelming than joyful. Between shopping, social events, and family obligations, the season can quickly shift from cheerful to stressful.
“If you find yourself feeling more stressed than usual right now, you’re definitely not alone,” says Carol Kirshnit, director of the Academic and Staff Assistance Program at UC Davis Health.
She notes that while holiday blues are common, severe anxiety or depression should not be ignored.
“When stress gets the best of us, we may turn to less healthy ways of coping,” she explains.
For those struggling, therapy, counseling, or medication can help manage mental health challenges. Experts at the Benilde Well-Being Center of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde share practical ways to ease holiday tension and make the season more enjoyable.
1. Don’t overschedule yourself
You don’t have to attend every gathering on the calendar. Focus on the events that bring you genuine joy. Prioritizing your own happiness can make your holiday experience lighter and more fulfilling.
2. Simplify travel
Long drives and multiple stopovers can add unnecessary stress. Opt for direct flights when possible and limit travel to a few meaningful events. A reasonable schedule can make your holiday feel less like a marathon and more like a celebration.
3. Manage gift giving
Overspending can turn gift-giving into a source of anxiety. Stick to a budget and remember that thoughtful, even handmade, gifts often carry more meaning than expensive ones. Enjoy the preparation as part of the tradition rather than a chore.
4. Be mindful of food and alcohol
and pace yourself during the season’s feasts
and festivities to maintain balance
It’s easy to overindulge in the season’s feasts and festivities. Try to stay within your usual healthy limits, drink plenty of water, and pace yourself. Moderation helps keep both your body and mind balanced.
5. Enjoy family on your terms
Extended family time can sometimes feel draining. It’s okay to step away for a short walk, a quiet chat with a friend, or a few moments alone to recharge. Setting boundaries allows you to enjoy time together without feeling overwhelmed.
6. Respect differences
Diverse opinions and traditions can create tension. Focus on shared values and seek understanding. If a discussion becomes too heated, step away to preserve your peace of mind.
7. Take time for yourself
in enjoyable activities
Give yourself permission to pause. Read a book, watch a favorite movie, exercise, or take a nap. Treating yourself with care is as important as caring for others.
8. Honor losses
Holidays can be bittersweet for those grieving. Allow yourself to feel your emotions, adjust traditions if needed, and find meaningful ways to include memories of lost loved ones in your celebrations.
9. Don’t neglect routine care
Amid the rush, maintain your self-care routines. Eat regularly, get enough sleep, meditate, or enjoy a massage. Small acts of maintenance can prevent stress from snowballing.
10. Reach out for support
If the season is tough, lean on friends and family. Talk openly about your feelings, and let others help you practice self-care and set boundaries.
The holidays are meant to bring joy, not stress. By slowing down, honoring your needs, and practicing mindful care, you can create a season that’s both meaningful and manageable.
