The holidays have a way of sneaking up on you. Your calendar fills up, your to-do lists grow, and before long, you’ve gone from feeling festive to frazzled.
Between social commitments, financial pressures, and the expectation to make everything merry and bright, it’s no wonder so many people struggle emotionally this time of year.
In fact, studies show that more than 60% of people living with mental health issues in the United States report worsening of symptoms during the holiday season.
Stress, disrupted routines, and unrealistic expectations can all contribute to mood changes, anxiety, and burnout.
At Reviv Functional Psychiatry & TMS Wellness Center in Fullerton, California, our experienced psychiatrist, Dr. Hina Sidhu, understands how overwhelming this time of year can be.
Here, we share practical ways to protect your mental health and find peace of mind amid the holiday rush.
The holidays can bring out your inner perfectionist. You may feel pressure to create the perfect celebration, bake homemade treats, attend every event, and find the ideal gift for everyone on your list. But striving for perfection often leads to exhaustion and disappointment.
Instead, focus on what truly matters to you and your loved ones. Simplify traditions by choosing one or two meaningful activities and skipping the rest.
Whether it’s baking one special dessert or spending an evening watching movies together, give yourself permission to let go of the rest.
Peace is better than perfection.
With shorter days and busier schedules, it’s easy to burn out. Overcommitting can drain your emotional and physical energy, leaving you irritable, tired, and unmotivated.
Protect your energy by setting boundaries. It’s okay to say no to extra obligations or last-minute plans. You don’t need to go to every party or buy gifts for everyone at the office.
Prioritize rest and self-care, take breaks, get enough sleep, and make time for activities that restore you.
The unpredictability of the holiday season is stressful, especially if you already struggle with anxiety or depression. Disrupted routines can worsen moods and anxiety levels.
Try to maintain your normal schedule as much as possible. Go to bed and wake up at consistent times, eat regular, balanced meals, and continue your exercise routine.
Even brief daily habits, like a morning walk or journaling before bed, can help you stay centered and grounded.
The holidays are filled with lights, noise, and constant activity. While festive, all that stimulation is overwhelming. To protect your mental well-being, build quiet moments into your day,
Find a few minutes to read, listen to calming music, or practice deep breathing exercises or mindfulness. Spending time outdoors or meditating can also help reduce stress hormones and improve focus.
Small and intentional pauses can improve how you feel.
Despite your best efforts, the holidays can still feel heavy, especially if you’re struggling with a mental health condition. If you find it hard to enjoy the activities you normally love, have trouble sleeping, or feel anxious or sad, it’s important to seek out help.
We can help you navigate the season with our compassion and holistic approach. Give our office a call today to schedule an appointment.
Take care of your mental health. When you’re well, everything else feels brighter and merrier.
