Ah, the holidays. A time for joy, connection, and—let’s be honest—just a smidge of anxiety. Or maybe more than a smidge. If you’ve ever found yourself stress-crying into a pile of wrapping paper or saying ‘yes’ to one too many cookie exchanges, you’re not alone. Holiday anxiety is real, and it’s no respecter of persons — even for those of us who love the twinkling lights and endless Christmas movies.
Here’s the thing: We’re often sold the idea that the holidays are supposed to be perfect. But what happens when perfection feels impossible, or worse, like a pressure cooker? Let’s talk about what holiday anxiety really is, why so many of us feel it, and how we can cope with grace and a little humor.
What Is Holiday Anxiety?
Holiday anxiety isn’t just the stress of trying to find matching pajamas for the whole family or baking six dozen cookies for the neighborhood exchange. It’s a unique kind of overwhelm, often triggered by high expectations, financial pressures, and disrupted routines.
According to experts, holiday anxiety can look like feeling panicked about social gatherings, dreading family dynamics, or worrying about how to manage it all without collapsing into a puddle of exhaustion. It’s the “holiday hustle” on steroids, and let’s be honest: Nobody was meant to carry that.
Why Do I Get Anxiety on Holidays? What Triggers It?
If you’re wondering why the most wonderful time of the year sometimes feels like the most overwhelming, you’re not alone. Here are a few common triggers:
- High Expectations: Instagram-worthy trees, perfect gifts, and Pinterest-level parties? No thanks.
- Financial Pressures: Gift-giving, travel, and endless holiday events can add up fast.
- Family Dynamics: Let’s just say that Uncle Bob’s political rants aren’t exactly peaceful and bright.
- Overcommitments: How did we get from “one festive gathering” to “three events in one weekend”?
- Loneliness: For some, the holidays can highlight what’s missing—a loved one, a relationship, or a sense of belonging.
- Disrupted Routines: Kids out of school, weird meal schedules, and constant go-go-go. Who even are we in December?
Tips for Coping with Holiday Stress
Here’s the good news: you can manage holiday anxiety without sacrificing the joy of the season. Try these strategies:
- Set Boundaries
It’s okay to say no. To events. To gifts that blow your budget. To that family member who always wants to stay “just one more week.” Boundaries are how you protect your peace. - Make a Budget (and Stick to It)
Listen, overspending isn’t festive—it’s stressful. With the help of a gift guide, decide what you can afford to spend on gifts, travel, and events, and stick to it. Remember, your presence is more valuable than presents. - Simplify Your Traditions
Not every tradition needs to be preserved forever. Choose the ones that bring joy and let go of the ones that bring dread. (Looking at you, hand-decorated gingerbread houses.) - Practice Self-Care
Take a walk, read a book, or sneak away for a few minutes of quiet with a cup of tea. And if you need a little extra help relaxing, FOCL’s premium CBD can be a game-changer. (Use my code JENBF24 for a holiday discount here.)
- Limit Social Media
Comparison is the thief of joy—and nothing fuels anxiety like scrolling through perfectly curated holiday feeds. Take a break, and remember: your holiday doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. - Communicate Your Needs
Feeling overwhelmed? Tell someone. Whether it’s asking for help with hosting duties or just venting to a friend, sharing your feelings can lighten the load. - Focus on What Matters Most
The perfect gift, meal, or décor won’t make or break your holiday. Connection, love, and presence (not presents!) are what really count.
Finding Peace This Holiday Season
If you’re feeling the weight of holiday anxiety, let me remind you of this: You don’t have to carry it all. The magic of the season isn’t in the perfect meal or the most elaborately wrapped gift—it’s in the moments of connection, the quiet joy of being together, and the grace to let go of what doesn’t serve you.
This year, let’s agree to make space for peace. To breathe deeply. To laugh at the chaos (because, y’all, there will be chaos). And to remind ourselves that it’s okay to be human—especially during the holidays.
You’ve got this, friend. Now go light that candle, turn on the twinkle lights, and pour yourself a cup of something warm. Peace on Earth starts here—with you.