While the holidays are often associated with joy and togetherness, they can also be a time of emotional pressure and fatigue. Family dynamics, grief, loneliness, or the desire to create the “perfect” celebration can take a toll on your mental health.
At Kardinia Health Geelong, our psychologists are here to help you prioritise your mental wellbeing with understanding, compassion, and practical guidance throughout the festive season.
Why the holidays can affect your mental health
Holiday mental health concerns can arise for a variety of reasons:
- Family dynamics: Tensions or unresolved issues within families often resurface during gatherings.
- Financial stress: Gift-giving, events, and travel can strain budgets.
- Loneliness: The season can highlight social isolation, especially for those without close friends or family nearby.
- Grief: Holidays may intensify feelings of loss or longing for loved ones who have passed.
- Disrupted routines: Changes in sleep, eating, and activity patterns can affect emotional stability.
Understanding that these challenges are common is the first step in managing them effectively.
Tips to support your holiday mental health
Looking after your mental wellbeing doesn’t have to be complicated. These practical strategies can help you stay grounded and emotionally well throughout the season:
Stay connected
Reach out to trusted friends or family. Even a phone call or text can help ease feelings of isolation. If you’re grieving or distanced from family, know that connection doesn’t have to come from traditional structures. Community groups, volunteering, or shared activities can offer a valuable sense of belonging.
Set healthy boundaries
It’s okay to say no to events, conversations, or commitments that may cause stress or discomfort. Protecting your well-being may mean limiting time with certain people or reshaping expectations around the season.
Avoid comparison
Whether it’s social media or family traditions, try not to measure your experience against others. Everyone’s journey looks different, and it’s okay if your holidays don’t match the picture-perfect ideal.
Stick to a budget
Financial pressure is a major holiday stressor. Plan ahead, consider meaningful low-cost gifts, and avoid impulse spending. Secret Santa-style arrangements can also ease the burden.
Prioritise self-care
Maintain regular routines where possible, especially when it comes to sleep, exercise, and nutrition. Taking a walk, eating nourishing meals, and creating space for quiet moments can make a real difference.
Create new traditions
If past holidays have been emotionally difficult, give yourself permission to do things differently. A small shift like a change of setting, a new ritual, or a quiet day to yourself can make the season feel more manageable and meaningful.
How Kardinia Health can support your emotional wellbeing
If you’re finding it difficult to manage holiday-related stress or emotions, talking to a psychologist can make a meaningful difference.
At Kardinia Health, we offer professional mental health services with a compassionate, personalised approach. Our clinical psychologists can help you explore coping strategies, work through emotional challenges, and build resilience during this time of year.
We understand that everyone’s experience is different. Whether you’re facing anxiety, low mood, grief, or overwhelm, our Geelong Medical Centre team is here to support you with care that’s respectful and tailored to your needs.
Make your mental health a priority this season
You don’t have to manage holiday stress alone. Prioritising your holiday mental health can help you find greater peace and enjoyment throughout the season.
If you’re struggling or simply need someone to talk to, reach out. Make an appointment with a GP or psychologist and take a positive step towards a more supported and balanced holiday experience.
