Managing your Mental Health this Holiday Season
The holiday season is often described as the “most wonderful time of the year,” filled with celebrations, family gatherings, and festive cheer. But for many people, this time of year can also bring stress, loneliness, financial pressure, or emotional overwhelm. If you find the holidays challenging, you’re not alone and your feelings are completely valid.
Here’s how you can take care of your mental wellbeing during the festive season.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
The pressure to be happy during the holidays can make difficult emotions feel even heavier. Whether you’re experiencing stress, grief, anxiety, or exhaustion, start by giving yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling. You don’t have to fit into anyone’s idea of holiday happiness.
Set Clear Boundaries
The holiday calendar can fill up quickly with invitations, events, and expectations from family or friends. It’s okay to say no when you need to.
Setting boundaries might look like:
Limiting the time you spend at gatherings
Choosing which events you genuinely want to attend
Steering away from difficult conversations
Carving out time for yourself even on busy days
Boundaries protect your energy, your peace, and your mental wellbeing.
Stay Connected In Ways That Feel Good
Connection doesn’t have to mean being surrounded by large groups of people.
For some, a quiet coffee with a friend or a phone call with someone supportive feels more meaningful and more manageable than big events.
If you’re feeling isolated, reach out. Text someone you trust, join a community activity, attend a local event, or lean on your support network. Even small moments of connection can make a big difference.
Protect Your Routine
Holidays tend to disrupt daily rhythms, which can impact mood and stability.
Try to hold on to the basics:
Consistent sleep habits
Eating regular meals
Staying hydrated
Moving your body in gentle ways
Sticking to any medication routines
Even a little structure can provide a sense of calm in a busy season.
Plan Ahead for Triggers
We all have moments or situations that increase our stress. Knowing your triggers and preparing for them can help you navigate the season with more confidence.
Consider planning for things like:
Family tensions: Have an exit plan or take breaks when needed.
Financial pressure: Set a realistic budget and stick to simple gifts or low-cost experiences.
Alcohol-related environments: Bring your own drinks or set a limit ahead of time.
Overscheduling: Space out events and leave time for rest.
Preparedness is a form of self-compassion.
Make Time for Quiet Moments
Amid shopping, socialising, travel, and noise, intentionally creating calm moments can be grounding.
Try:
Going for a quiet walk
Deep breathing or short meditations
Listening to calming music
Spending five minutes alone in a peaceful space
Journaling to release your thoughts
These small resets help soothe your nervous system.
Shift the Focus to What Truly Matters
You don’t need the “perfect” holiday. Comparison especially through social media can make everything feel harder.
Instead, focus on what brings you genuine comfort or joy. That might be:
Cooking a favourite meal
Watching familiar movies
Spending time with pets
Creating your own simple traditions
Doing something kind for someone else
Small, meaningful moments often matter more than big, picture-perfect ones.
Seek Extra Support When Needed
If the season feels heavy, talking to someone can help. Reach out to:
A mental health professional
A trusted friend or family member
A support worker or carer
A helpline or community service
Asking for support is a sign of strength not weakness.
Final Thoughts
The holidays look different for everyone. There’s no right or wrong way to navigate this season. What matters most is honouring your needs, tending to your wellbeing, and giving yourself grace.
If you're finding this season difficult, reach out. For immediate mental health support, call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service at 1300 659 467. For non-emergency support, Beyond Blue can be reached at 1300 224 636. In a mental health emergency, call 000.