The Holiday Blues

An Introduction to Holiday Blues

Ah, the holidays. Twinkling lights, festive songs on repeat, the scent of cookies in the air—and, for some, an undercurrent of stress, sadness, or overwhelm that doesn’t exactly pair well with the season’s cheer.

If you’ve ever found yourself crying into a mug of cocoa or hiding in the pantry to avoid Aunt Linda’s probing questions, congratulations—you’ve experienced what’s often called the holiday blues.

And guess what? You’re not alone.

The holiday blues are surprisingly common, even though social media would have us believe everyone else is living their best Hallmark movie life.

Between the pressure to create perfect memories, family drama, financial stress, and even shorter, darker days, it’s no wonder this time of year can feel like a bit much. But don’t worry, this isn’t another “just cheer up” piece.

We’re here to talk honestly about those blues, why they happen, and how to tackle them—hopefully with a few laughs along the way.

Tips for Maintaining Sanity During the Holidays

The holidays can be magical, sure. But they can also make you feel like a contestant on a reality show called Who Can Handle the Most Chaos? If that sounds familiar, here are some practical tips to help you keep your cool.

1. Say No Like a Pro

First things first: You don’t have to attend every event, bake every cookie, or hand-knit scarves for the entire neighborhood. It’s okay—scratch that—it’s essential to say no sometimes. Practice this phrase: “I’d love to, but I just can’t swing it this year.” Repeat as needed, and remember, you’re not being rude. You’re protecting your sanity.

2. Simplify Where You Can

Feel like you’re drowning in to-do lists? Take a deep breath and focus on what truly matters to you. Maybe skip the seven-layer trifle and go for brownies instead. Maybe the holiday cards can be replaced with a heartfelt group text. Let go of the need for perfection. Spoiler alert: Nobody’s holiday is flawless, no matter how it looks on Instagram.

3. Carve Out Some “You” Time

Yes, the holidays are about togetherness, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take some time for yourself. Whether it’s a solo walk, a quiet cup of coffee, or locking yourself in the bathroom for ten minutes of peace, small breaks can work wonders. And no, it’s not selfish—it’s self-preservation.

4. Laugh When You Can

Ever notice how the most chaotic holiday moments tend to become the funniest stories later? Embrace the ridiculousness. Burned the turkey? That’s what pizza delivery is for. Forgot the gift exchange rules? Hey, someone might really enjoy your last-minute bag of holiday M&Ms. Laughter is free therapy, so use it liberally.

Using Boundaries with Friends and Family

Ah, family—the people who know exactly how to push your buttons and yet somehow still expect you to be jolly. If you’re feeling frazzled just thinking about holiday gatherings, it might be time to talk boundaries.

Start with Honesty

Setting boundaries doesn’t mean starting a family feud. It’s about clear, kind communication. If you need a break from political debates at the dinner table, you can say something like, “I’d love to keep this holiday light and fun—can we skip the heavy stuff this year?”

Keep It Firm but Kind

Once you set a boundary, stick to it. If you’ve told your cousin you’re leaving the party at 8 p.m., don’t let the guilt trip keep you until midnight. Politely say your goodbyes and go. Trust me, there’s nothing wrong with putting your needs first.

Remember, It’s Not Personal

Sometimes people will push back against your boundaries, but that’s more about them than you. Stay calm, stay polite, and remember—you’re doing what’s best for your mental health. And honestly, most of your family will probably thank you later for diffusing unnecessary stress.

Seeking Support When Overwhelmed

If the holidays have you feeling more overwhelmed than merry, it’s okay to admit you need help. In fact, it’s one of the strongest things you can do.

Know the Signs

If you’re feeling constantly exhausted, unusually irritable, or just plain down, it might be time to reach out. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and there’s no shame in asking for help when you need it.

Lean on Your Support System

Start by reaching out to friends or family you trust. Sometimes just talking about what you’re feeling can lift some of the weight. And if your inner circle isn’t available or helpful, there are other options.

Seek Professional Help

Counselors, therapists, and support groups can be incredible resources, especially during high-stress times. If you’re not sure where to start, check out online directories or local community resources. Many therapists even offer virtual sessions these days, so you don’t even have to leave your cozy blanket cocoon to get support.

Use Helplines If Needed

If things feel especially heavy, don’t hesitate to call a hotline. In the U.S., you can dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. They’re available 24/7 to provide support and help you through tough moments.

Words of Encouragement

The holiday blues are real, but so is your ability to navigate them. Remember, it’s okay to feel less than festive sometimes—there’s no rule that says you have to be merry 24/7.

Give yourself permission to set boundaries, simplify, and seek support when you need it.

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Whether you’re sipping cocoa in your PJs or FaceTiming a friend for a laugh, small moments of joy can make a big difference.

And if all else fails, there’s always next year, right?

Take care of yourself this season. You deserve to enjoy the holidays in a way that feels good for you—whether that’s with all the trimmings or a whole lot less. You’ve got this!