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 helpful exercise is journalling. Write down what’s making you anxious or upset about the season. Sometimes, simply putting your thoughts on paper can help you process them more clearly and ease your mental load.
Set boundaries
The festive season often means spending time with extended family or friends you don’t usually see—and sometimes, these interactions can be draining. It’s important to set boundaries to protect your mental health.
- 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.
Your well-being is more important than pleasing everyone else.
Skip 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.
Embrace alternative traditions
If the traditional Christmas isn’t your thing, create your own version of the holiday. 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.
Focus on acts of kindness
Sometimes, shifting the focus away from ourselves can bring a sense of fulfillment during a challenging time. Consider small acts of kindness that can make a big impact:
- Donate to a local food bank or charity.
- Volunteer at a community organisation.
- Write a heartfelt card or letter to someone who might need a pick-me-up.
Helping others can be a meaningful way to reconnect with the spirit of the season.
Get outdoors and move your body
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and lift your mood, even during the busiest time of year. If the festive chaos is getting to you, lace up your trainers and head out for a walk, run, or even a festive parkrun.
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!
Stick to a budget
One of the biggest sources of Christmas stress is financial pressure. The gifts, decorations, and social events can add up quickly, but overspending often leads to regret and anxiety.
To avoid this, set a realistic budget and stick to it. Remember, thoughtful, personal gifts don’t have to be expensive. You could even try homemade presents or give experiences rather than material items.
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 cozy hot chocolate or a watch of your favourite series.
Plan 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, it’s just a day
At the end of the day, Christmas is just that—a single day. It doesn’t define your year or your worth. If you need to, treat it like any other day and remind yourself that it will pass.
Focus on the things that bring you joy, whether that’s spending time with your pet, reading a book, or simply taking it slow.
The festive season isn’t magical for everyone, and that’s okay. Whether you dread the crowds, the pressure to socialise, or the overwhelming commercialisation of it all, remember to prioritise your own well-being.
By setting boundaries, creating your own traditions, and focusing on what truly matters to you, you can navigate Christmas in a way that feels a little more manageable. You’ve got this!
