Each year during the winter holidays, watching It’s a Wonderful Life by Frank Capra is a tradition for me. The holidays are a natural time to reflect on one’s life. For some, the season feels exciting, fun, and refreshing. However, for others, it can be one of the most difficult times of the year.
According to the APA Healthy Minds Poll, 41% of adults “say they anticipate more stress related to the holidays this year than last year.” The survey identified that half of adults worry about grief or missing someone, and 46% are concerned about affording or finding holiday gifts.
Regardless of the holidays you celebrate, expectations during this time can be overwhelming. Tasks such as buying gifts, preparing food, and planning events require additional time and resources—things many people already struggle to find.
Consider the following tips to support your mental health throughout this season of good cheer:
- Be kind to yourself: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Know your triggers and prepare for stressful situations.
- Simplify travel: Avoid the stress of rushing from one place or one plane to another.
- Don’t overschedule yourself: Do the things you must do, then devote your remaining time and energy to activities you truly enjoy.
- Practice setting boundaries: Relationships can be complex. Acknowledge that you can only control your own role in a situation. If needed, limit your exposure to negative or challenging individuals.
- Practice healthy habits: It’s tempting to let these slide during the holidays. Remember that eating well, getting enough sleep, and making time for relaxation help you manage stress of all kinds.
- Manage gift-giving: You are not obligated to spend beyond your means. Set realistic limits on gift spending.
- Respect differences: Focus on common ground where possible. Set clear boundaries and remember you can always take a break from stressful interactions.
- Honor the losses of the year: Find ways to weave in the memory of your loved ones, whether by starting a new tradition or continuing a meaningful old one.
- Seek support: If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988.
As you navigate the holiday season, remember that caring for your mental health is just as important as showing up for the people you love. The holidays do not have to be perfect to be meaningful, and you are allowed to set limits, honor your feelings, and create a season that supports your well-being. Small choices, such as pausing to rest, asking for help, and simplifying plans, can make a significant difference.
No matter what this time of year brings for you, know that you are not alone. Support is available, community is around you, and taking care of yourself is one of the greatest gifts you can give to both yourself and those who care about you.
Tessa Hobbs-Curley is committed to supporting the people of west-central Illinois. As a family life educator serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren counties, she feels her role is vital to the well-being of her community. Tessa provides community-based training and education on life issues affecting families, adults, and individuals as they age.
A firm believer in the impact of human development work, Tessa has dedicated the past 25 years to helping others. She believes lifelong success begins with social and emotional learning, and she centers her work around this philosophy. Tessa is excited to serve as a coach for the Illinois Strong Couples project, which promotes essential skills for maintaining strong, healthy relationships.