Do You Have the Holiday Blues? You’re Not Alone

Sandy Ische
2 days ago
4 min read

If you’re struggling with the holiday blues, you are not alone. Many people find that the holiday season brings emotional exhaustion rather than feelings of merriment.

I spoke with a family member recently who shared that they didn’t decorate much for Christmas this year, compared to “going all out” in past years. They admitted they just weren’t feeling in the mood for the holiday cheer this year. I understood immediately. With my cousin currently in the hospital, I’ve been experiencing similar emotions. I encouraged them, however, that sometimes doing something small and uplifting—even when we don’t feel like it—can create movement, momentum, and, eventually, a bit of merriment.

These feelings of sadness and exhaustion are more common than we realize. For many people, the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year” can be emotionally draining and produce mental health challenges. The holidays often amplify stress related to strained family relationships, financial pressures fueled by consumerism, societal expectations, as well as loneliness, and grief for loved ones who may be absent. Rather than feeling restorative, the season can take a toll on our well-being significantly impacting our mental health, and self-care is often neglected during this busy season.

The Mental Health Impact of the Holidays

According to a recent survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 24% of individuals living with a diagnosed mental illness report that the holidays make their condition “a lot” worse, while another 40% say it’s "somewhat" worse. While seasonal emotional distress is not classified as a mental illness, it should not be dismissed. Short-term struggles can grow into more serious concerns such as anxiety or depression. Those who already manage mental health challenges may feel the impact more deeply, which makes awareness and support from loved ones especially important and it can make a meaningful difference in their lives.

If you’re feeling the pressure of the season, there are practical steps that can help reduce holiday-related stress. Amen Clinics notes, “If you want to avoid depression during the holidays, alcohol and sugar are not your friends.” Alcohol is a depressant that can worsen low moods, while excess sugar causes blood sugar spikes and crashes that lead to irritability and fatigue. Making mindful choices about what we consume can help stabilize both mood and energy.

Research supports just how widespread holiday stress really is. Recent reports show that 57% of Americans feel stressed during the holiday season. Many people even avoid holiday gatherings because of the emotional strain tied to expectations and obligations. A poll by the American Psychological Association found that 58% of adults identified overspending or not having the financial resources as a major source of holiday stress. At the same time, the AmeriSpeak Seasonal Wellness Spotlight (2025) revealed that nearly 60% of Americans turn to family and friends for emotional support during stressful times, reinforcing the importance of connection.

Protecting Your Mental Health This Holiday Season

Protecting your mental health doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it starts with being proactive. Creating an action plan can help you protect your well-being throughout the season. One helpful step is setting a realistic budget and committing to it. While Christmas is often associated with gift-giving, it’s not about going into debt. Giving can take many meaningful forms, such as spending quality time together, baking with loved ones, watching holiday movies, or attending a candlelight service.

Amid the hustle and bustle, it’s also essential to intentionally care for yourself. Simple activities like taking a walk in nature, creating art together, listening to Christmas music, or slowing down to enjoy moments of laughter can nurture both your mental health and your relationships. Creating space for your needs is life giving. It includes activities that fill you up, such as: practicing gratitude – thanking God for His presence and His provisions, setting healthy boundaries that safeguard your soul, and not over committing, getting a restful night’s sleep, and living life "in the moment" - being fully engaged and appreciating the little moments. In doing so, you may find that “cheer and merriment” still have room to show up this holiday season, even if it looks different than years past.

Journaling Prompts

If you’re experiencing the holiday blues, remember this: you don’t have to go through it alone, and you don’t have to feel joyful every moment of the season. Small, intentional steps can help protect your mental health and create moments of peace.

Where have you noticed God meeting you in this season, even in the midst of the pain?
What does it look like for you to rest in God’s presence when the holidays feel overwhelming?
How can you invite Christ into the areas of stress, grief, or exhaustion you may be carrying this season?
What does taking care of your mental health look like for you right now?
What is one small thing has brought you comfort or peace this season?
Are there boundaries you could establish this holiday season that would help to support your mental health?
Who is someone you can reach out to when the holidays feel overwhelming?
Who might God be placing on your heart to reach out to today?

As we move through this season, I invite you to pause and reflect: Where might God be gently calling you to slow down, let go, or lean into His peace? What would it look like to care for your heart and mind as an act of faith this Christmas season? I’d love to hear how you’re navigating this time—feel free to reply and share what’s been on your heart.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

When the weight of the season feels heavy, I’m reminded of Jesus’ comfort in Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” In this scripture Jesus invites us to come as we are and rest in His presence. - Will you accept His invitation?

Call to Action

If this message resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone who may be struggling this holiday season. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out—to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional. Support is available, and your mental well-being matters.

You deserve care, connection, and compassion—this season and always.

#ChristianMentalHealth #HolidayBlues #SelfCare #ProtectMentalHealth #WellBeing #HolidaysStress #Anxiety #CopingWithTheHolidays #YouAreNotAlone #HolidayStressRelief #HolidaySelfCare #HopeInChrist #GodsPresence #HealingTogether #HealingJourney #HolidayConnection #PeaceofChrist #MeaningfulMoments #PracticalSteps #StressRelief #MentalHealthMatters