The holiday season is a strange mix of cheer and challenge. For many of us navigating mental health struggles, it feels nothing like a Hallmark moment—more like an endurance test.
The pressure to embrace joy, connect with family, and attend endless gatherings is a recipe for overwhelm. Add shorter days, colder weather, and the weight of loneliness or grief, and it’s no surprise that mental health referrals surge during this time.
There’s no manual for surviving these months, but there are steps you can take to ease the weight and find moments of peace. I’m sharing a few of my personal go-to's.
Focus on What Grounds You
One of the best ways to counter the stress of the season is to find something uniquely yours. Maybe it’s a winter hobby you’ve never tried, like cross-country skiing or baking bread or simply revisiting an old favorite. It doesn’t have to be perfect, and it doesn’t have to fix everything, but having something to look forward to can transform how you experience this time of year.
For me, this includes daily walks, no matter how cold it gets. Good thermals and warm boots make it bearable, even on the harshest days. Movement, even in the simplest form, works wonders for mental clarity and mood.
Set Boundaries That Work for You
Holiday gatherings can bring their own set of challenges. As much as we want to make others happy, remember this: their emotions are theirs to manage.
Know when to step away
Whether it’s from a heated family discussion or simply a room that feels too crowded.
Have an exit plan
know what it is and communicate it clearly if needed—it’s okay to prioritize your mental health.
Lighten and Nourish Your World
Darkness, both physical and emotional, can weigh heavily during winter. Replacing burnt-out lightbulbs or investing in a sunlamp can help mimic the uplifting effects of sunlight.
Just as importantly, pay attention to how you’re nourishing your body. Shorter days often lead to convenience meals and skipped nutrients, but dedicating time to prepare hearty, satisfying meals can make a surprising difference.
Let Go of Perfection
It’s tempting to want everything—gifts, gatherings, meals—to go just right. But sometimes, letting go of these expectations can make the season far less stressful.
Burn the turkey? Order pizza. Forget a present? Write a heartfelt note. Years from now, it’s the laughter and love that will matter, not whether the wrapping paper matched.
A Season of Possibility
If this time of year feels like an uphill battle, I see you. The struggle is real, but so is the hope. Taking small steps to care for yourself, embracing what feels good, and letting go of what doesn’t can shift the season from something you endure to something you navigate with intention.
I’ve shared more insights on this in the video below where I have discussed strategies to manage this challenging time.
- Scott
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