5 Ways to Manage Stress During the Holidays
The holiday season can be a time of celebration, belonging, and joy. Family get-togethers, classic movies, religious meaning, baking cookies, decorating... the traditions could go on and on. But the holidays can also be a time of added stress, sadness, or, at best, feel bittersweet. It can remind us of loved ones who have passed away. It can highlight current strained relationships or stir up feelings of loneliness. Visiting distant family or attending work parties can bring on intense anxiety. If you relate more to the latter, you’re not alone. A 2023 survey shows that 73% of people feel moderate to high stress during the holidays, and 64% say it’s more stressful than during tax season. The season can feel overwhelming, but we can use several practical strategies to navigate the season while taking care of our well-being. From the list of 5 strategies below, which would help you the most?
KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS
Do you worry most about finances? Are visits home to family intense? Do you take on the responsibility of hosting? Are you flooded with painful memories? Knowing what causes intense emotions can help you prepare ahead of time and manage your emotional reactions.
STAY GROUNDED IN YOUR HEALTHY HABITS
Between shopping, planning, parties, cooking, and decorating, sticking with regular habits can feel nearly impossible. However, finding ways to stay consistent with your routine, even if they’re scaled back, can be very grounding. Think of what has the biggest impact on your wellness and find ways to keep it going. Short walks, 5–10-minute mindfulness exercises, or journaling could be great additions. Maintaining your sleep routine and managing expectations throughout the season are also helpful.
CONNECT WITH THE MEANING OF THE HOLIDAY
The holiday season often sweeps us up in its hustle and bustle. But when we pause to reconnect with the deeper meaning, we can experience a richer sense of joy and connection. Music is one of my favorite ways to celebrate the season. How can you stay connected to the meaning of the season this year?
VOLUNTEER
Volunteering is a powerful way to find fulfillment while helping understaffed organizations and supporting people in need. Research shows that 76% of volunteers feel less isolated, and 77% report improved mental health and well-being. Whether you volunteer through your church, a food bank, a homeless shelter, or simply by helping a neighbor, you will likely gain a renewed sense of gratitude and purpose.
TALK WITH A COUNSELOR
Don’t try to go it alone. If you expect challenging moments or have a list of stressors coming to mind, having someone to talk to can make a world of difference. Counselors can help you prepare for stressful events, develop healthier coping strategies, and process painful memories. With guidance and support, you can approach the holidays more resiliently, focus on what matters most, and find moments of peace.
BONUS TIP: Don’t isolate yourself
When stress creeps in, it can feel tempting to withdraw, but connecting with others can be a great way to manage that stress. The holidays often give us ample opportunity to connect with others. If you’re not in the mood for larger gatherings like community events or work parties, consider other ways to connect. A call to a family member, dinner with a friend, or friendly conversation with a neighbor can offer a sense of belonging and help you feel supported.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Jason Stewart, MS, PCC
Jason is our master’s level intern nearing the end of his MA degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University. With a Master of Science degree in Positive Psychology, he brings a unique perspective to his counseling approach. For over five years, Jason served as an executive leadership coach, assisting clients in surpassing their goals and finding fulfillment in their lives, working with a multicultural and diverse population spanning 15 different countries. However, he discovered an innate passion and purpose for supporting adult clients through the journey of restoration and flourishing within counseling.