The holiday season is often described as “the most wonderful time of the year.” But for many people, it’s also one of the most stressful. The pressure to feel joyful, connect with family, and manage endless to-do lists can make even the most grounded person feel overwhelmed.

If the holidays bring more anxiety than excitement, you’re not alone—and there’s nothing wrong with you for feeling that way.

Why the Holidays Can Feel Hard

There are so many reasons holiday stress shows up, including:

• Unrealistic expectations: Social media and cultural messages tell us the holidays should look perfect—beautifully decorated homes, smiling families, effortless generosity. Reality rarely matches that picture.

• Family dynamics: Old roles, unresolved tension, or complicated relationships can resurface this time of year.

• Financial strain: Gift-giving and travel can stretch budgets thin.

• Grief and loneliness: Holidays can magnify loss, whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a sense of belonging.

• Change in routine: Disrupted schedules, travel, and social events can make it harder to stay grounded.

Signs Holiday Anxiety Is Creeping In

Holiday anxiety can look different for everyone. You might notice:

• Feeling tense or irritable

• Trouble sleeping or relaxing

• Dreading events you “should” look forward to

• Feeling disconnected or numb

• Overthinking interactions or choices

Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward taking care of yourself.

Grounding Yourself Through the Season

Here are a few ways to protect your mental health as the holidays approach:

1. Check Your Expectations

Give yourself permission to let go of the idea of a “perfect” holiday. Focus on what truly matters to you this season—maybe that’s quiet time, meaningful connection, or simply rest.

2. Create Small Moments of Calm

You don’t need a full day off to reset. A few deep breaths in the car, a short walk, or five minutes with your favorite song can help your body unwind.

3. Set Boundaries with Compassion

It’s okay to decline events or step away from situations that drain you. Saying no doesn’t make you unkind—it’s a way of honoring your needs.

4. Stay Connected to What Grounds You

Keep routines that help you feel balanced: journaling, therapy, movement, or time outdoors. Familiar rhythms help regulate your nervous system when everything else feels unpredictable.

5. Allow All Feelings to Belong

Joy, stress, sadness, gratitude—they can all coexist. You don’t have to force positivity to make the season meaningful. Letting yourself feel what’s real can actually bring more peace than pretending everything’s okay.

Remember: You’re Not Alone

Many people carry quiet anxiety through the holidays. Choosing gentleness over perfection doesn’t mean you’re missing out—it means you’re tuning in.

This season, may you give yourself permission to do less, rest more, and show up as you are. That’s enough.