How to Get Through Christmas When It's Challenging

Christmas is often held up as a time of joy and celebration. A period where we spend time with those we love, let our hair down, and enjoy the festive spirit. And for many people, it is all of that and more. 

However, it can be a challenging period for others. Financial worries, personal conflict, work stress and other mental health issues don’t go away during December. At a time when we’re supposed to be happy and sociable, the pressure can be overwhelming.

But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in your feelings. In this guide, we explore some reasons people might struggle and ways you can manage your emotions during the festive season.

Why Christmas Can Be Stressful & Challenging

Christmas can be stressful for anybody, but the added pressure of the festive period can all add up:

• Financial concerns: The pressure to buy presents, feed the family, attend social events and travel to see loved ones can cause people to worry about their budgets. When personal finances are already tight, this can cause people to feel emotions like guilt, shame, anxiety and stress.
• Relationship problems: Relationship issues can be heightened at Christmas, as the pressure to appear happy or pretend everything is normal can be exhausting. Likewise, if you’re in the process of parting ways or are recently single, seeing friends and family in relationships can increase the feelings of loss or sadness.
• Family conflict: Strained family relationships and spending extended periods with the same people can be difficult. This can be especially true if a partner or family member is abusive or volatile.
• Bereavement: Losing a loved one is never easy, but it can be particularly challenging around Christmas and other notable dates. Whether it’s missing them in the moment or remembering happier times, feelings of loss and grief can be heightened. 
  It may not just be lost loved ones that can be a challenge. For example, couples struggling to conceive children may find it hard to see other happy families, or those with family members abroad or working can miss having their partners nearby.
• Loneliness & isolation: Whether you have nobody to turn to and spend time with, feel left out or are struggling with other mental health concerns, Christmas may heighten these emotions, especially if you see other people seemingly enjoying the festive period.
• Disruption of routine & overstimulation: For some, especially those who are neurodivergent or have differing needs, Christmas can be very stressful. The disruption to daily life, busy schedules, crowded places and pressure to socialise can be both exhausting and overwhelming.
• Addiction & substance abuse: People with addictions can be at a higher risk around Christmas. There is often a social obligation to drink alcohol or eat unhealthy food, and even the extra festive sporting events can challenge those with gambling issues.

• Reduced access to support services: Many support and medical services are reduced over the festive period, leaving those who rely on them without help should they need it.

   

How to Navigate the Festive Period

While it may be daunting, navigating (and enjoying!) the Christmas period is very possible, especially if you plan ahead, prioritise your mental and physical health, and maintain boundaries.

Everybody is different, but there is a range of coping strategies that can help you get through this difficult time. These range from exercise and practising self-care to speaking to a mental health professional and seeking additional support.

Let’s take a look.

Prioritise Yourself & Set Boundaries

The pressure to socialise and attend events can be exhausting, but remember that it’s OK to say no and take some time for yourself. This is especially important if you feel you may end up in a situation that could trigger certain medical conditions. 

For example, it’s perfectly acceptable to avoid situations that may put you in contact with people you don’t want to see, or take place in locations you’re not comfortable being in. Likewise, if you’re struggling with finances or perhaps facing issues surrounding addiction, it’s OK to avoid events that involve spending money on food and drink or where alcohol is served.

Likewise, it might be beneficial to set time limits for certain activities and then leave. This can help people attend events or gatherings and feel like they’re part of things, and take advantage of the benefits of socialising, without burning themselves out in the process.

Maintain a Routine & Exercise

Although the festive period can be chaotic and disruptive, try to maintain your core routines as much as possible, especially regarding sleep and mealtimes. 

It’s also a time to try and retain a decent diet. Nobody wants to miss out on certain treats and indulgences, but eating well can have a raft of both physical and mental benefits. The same is true of getting exercise and fresh air. Whether it’s a full gym workout, a short walk around the park, or something in between, physical activity and vitamin D can help your mental health.

Seek Support From a Professional

Sometimes, self-care and other methods simply aren’t enough, and the demands of the festive season can become too much. If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, or simply need somebody to talk to, online therapy is an effective and proven way to help manage and process your emotions.

Asking for help can be very daunting, but our empathetic and understanding online therapists are here to help. What’s more, online counselling is flexible and affordable, allowing you to fit sessions around your work and personal commitments, all from the comfort and safety of your own home.

Why not Get Started today, and start the journey to feeling better and enjoying the Christmas period?