Ah, Christmas. The season of joy, togetherness and Instagram-perfect moments. From twinkling lights to cosy matching PJs, it’s the time of year when social media is flooded with picture-perfect Christmas markets, cheerful families and festive cheer. But for many people, the festive season can feel less like a holiday and more like a minefield of stress, anxiety and overwhelm.
If you dread Christmas or find it hard to embrace the festivities, you’re not alone. Between crowded streets, packed shops and the pressure to spend time with people you might usually avoid, it’s no surprise that many people feel a sense of apprehension as December rolls around. Here’s a reminder: it’s totally normal to feel this way. Whether Christmas isn’t your thing or you’re simply struggling this year, here are some practical ways to make it through the festive season with your sanity intact.
Acknowledge your feelings
First things first – give yourself permission to feel how you feel. If Christmas fills you with dread instead of joy, that’s okay. You don’t have to force festive cheer just because it’s what others expect. Recognise your emotions and remind yourself that it’s perfectly valid to feel this way.
One thing that can really help is journalling. Write down what’s making you anxious or upset about the season. Just getting everything out of your head and onto paper can make things feel a lot lighter.
Set boundaries
December usually means more socialising, more family time, and more pressure to be everywhere at once. If certain situations or people drain you, it is absolutely fine to put boundaries in place. Say no to things you do not want to do, shorten visits, or plan an exit strategy if you know you will need one. Protecting your mental health matters more than ticking every box on someone else’s festive wishlist.
- Say no when you need to: You don’t have to attend every gathering or stay longer than you’re comfortable with.
- Plan ahead: If you know certain people or situations trigger stress, decide in advance how you’ll handle them. For example, you could limit your visit to a couple of hours or plan an exit strategy.
Avoid the crowds
Christmas shopping and festive events often mean battling crowded streets and packed shops, which can feel overwhelming. If the hustle and bustle isn’t for you, try these alternatives:
- Shop online: Avoid the stress of in-store shopping by ordering gifts from the comfort of your home.
- Visit off-peak times: If you must hit the shops, go early in the morning or during weekdays when it’s quieter.
- Say no to Christmas markets: They may look magical in photos, but the reality is often noisy, cramped, and stressful. It’s okay to skip them altogether.
Create your own traditions
If the traditional Christmas set up does not appeal, make your own version. Who says you need to follow the usual script?
- Host a “festive movie marathon” with your favourite films and snacks.
- Take a solo trip or plan a quiet day at home with a good book.
- Cook your favourite meal, even if it’s not a turkey dinner.
Doing what feels right for you can make the season feel more manageable and even enjoyable.
Spread a little kindness
Sometimes helping someone else can lift your mood in a really lovely way. You could donate to a local charity, volunteer your time, or simply write a thoughtful message to someone who might need it. Small acts of kindness can help you reconnect with the softer side of the season.
Get outdoors and move your body
Fresh air really does wonders when things feel heavy. Go for a walk, head out for a run, or join a festive parkrun if you fancy being around people without the pressure to chat. Movement is brilliant for clearing your head, and it gives you a good excuse to sneak out of the Christmas chaos for a bit.
Not only will fresh air and movement help clear your mind, but activities like a parkrun also offer a sense of community without the pressures of a formal social gathering. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to escape for a while! Yes, there are even parkruns on Xmas Morning!
Stick to a budget
Money worries are a huge part of Christmas stress. Set yourself a budget that feels doable and do your best to stick to it. Thoughtful gifts do not have to cost loads. Homemade presents, little experiences, or even handwritten notes can be just as meaningful as anything from a shop.
Practice self-care
When the festive season feels overwhelming, prioritise taking care of yourself. That might mean carving out quiet time to recharge, saying no to a stressful event, or indulging in something that brings you comfort.
Here are some self-care ideas:
- Run a bubble bath and relax with your favourite playlist.
- Meditate or practice deep breathing to calm your mind.
- Treat yourself to a little festive indulgence, whether that’s a cosy hot chocolate or a watch of your favourite series.
Plan something for January
If Christmas feels like something you just need to survive, focus on what’s ahead. Start planning something to look forward to in January, whether it’s a new project, a holiday, or even just a reset day for yourself. Having a light at the end of the tunnel can help you push through the harder moments.
Remember that it is just a day
At the end of the day, Christmas is just that – a single day. It does not define you or your year. If you want to treat it like any other day, that is totally fine. Do whatever makes you feel happiest and safest.
If the festive season feels hard, please know that you are not the only one. Be kind to yourself, keep things simple, and do what works for you. You can absolutely get through this.
