What to do if you are Feeling Overwhelmed During the Festive Season

The festive season is meant to be a time of joy, but let’s be real—it can also feel overwhelming. From packed schedules to financial pressures and emotional triggers, the holiday season can weigh heavily on your mental well-being. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, you’re not alone. Here are some practical steps to help you navigate these feelings and reclaim your peace.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, even during a time that’s “supposed” to be cheerful. Allow yourself to feel what you’re experiencing without guilt. Bottling up emotions often amplifies stress, so give yourself permission to express them—whether by journaling, talking to someone you trust, or simply taking a moment to pause and breathe.

Simplify Your To-Do List

The endless list of holiday tasks—shopping, cooking, decorating—can feel like too much. Prioritize what truly matters to you and let go of the rest. For instance, focus on spending meaningful time with loved ones instead of stressing about hosting a picture-perfect dinner.

Take Breaks and Rest

It’s tempting to power through the season, but overextending yourself only leads to burnout. Schedule downtime into your day, even if it’s just 15 minutes to sit quietly or enjoy a short walk. Rest is essential for both your physical and mental health.

Practice Mindfulness

When overwhelmed, your mind often races with worry about the future or regrets about the past. Ground yourself in the present by practicing mindfulness. Deep breathing, meditation, or simply focusing on small sensory details (like the smell of cinnamon or the warmth of a mug of cocoa) can help anchor you.

Set Boundaries

You don’t have to say “yes” to every invitation, tradition, or obligation. Learn to set boundaries that protect your energy. Whether it’s limiting time at a stressful family gathering or skipping a party to rest, prioritize your needs.

Limit Social Media and Comparisons

Scrolling through picture-perfect holiday posts can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy or pressure. Remember, social media often shows a curated version of reality. Focus on your own unique celebrations and avoid falling into the comparison trap.

Engage in Small Acts of Self-Care

Little things can make a big difference in how you feel. Take a hot bath, listen to your favorite music, or read a comforting book. Treating yourself kindly can help ease the burden of the season.

Give Yourself Grace

The holidays don’t have to be perfect, and neither do you. Let go of perfectionism and embrace imperfection as part of the journey. Celebrate small wins and cherish the moments that bring you joy, however simple they may be.

Focus on What Brings You Joy

What makes the season meaningful for you? Whether it’s baking cookies, watching your favorite holiday movie, or helping others through volunteering, lean into activities that uplift your spirit and let go of the rest.

Reach Out for Support

If you’re feeling isolated or overwhelmed, connecting with others can help. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about how you’re feeling. If you need additional support, consider speaking to a therapist or counselor. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you are feeling overwhelmed at this time, professional help is always an option. Telehealth services, like those I offer at Bahr Holistic Psychiatry, LLC, provide convenient access to mental health care from the comfort of your home.

The festive season can be both beautiful and overwhelming, and that’s okay. By slowing down, setting boundaries, and practicing self-compassion, you can create a holiday experience that feels more peaceful and authentic to you. Remember, taking care of yourself is the best gift you can give.

If you’re looking for personalized guidance or need additional support, I encourage you to reach out. Contact me at to learn more about how I can help you create a plan tailored to your needs. I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Wishing you calm, joy, and comfort this holiday season!