Finding Hope in the Holidays: Supporting Mental Health During a Difficult Season
The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, warmth, and connection. But for many families, it can feel like one of the hardest times of the year. Whether it’s due to grief, financial stress, strained relationships, or the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations, the holidays can amplify mental health challenges and leave people feeling isolated or hopeless. Finding hope in the holidays is crucial for navigating this challenging season.
“As a mother, I’ve spent many Decembers feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and, if I’m being completely honest, hopeless,” says Rebecca Foust, Lead Family Coordinator with Lycoming-Clinton System of Care. “I’ve carried the weight of trying to create the "perfect" holiday for my family, even when my own mental health was unraveling.” If you or someone you love is extra stressed this holiday season, don’t give up. As Rebecca puts it: “Hope isn’t about erasing the hard parts – it’s about finding light in the midst of them. And if you’re struggling, you’re not alone.”
Cracking the Holiday Code: Understanding Seasonal Stress
The holidays often bring added stressors that can take a toll on mental health. “For me, the holidays bring a mix of triggers,” says Rebecca. “It’s as if every TV commercial, every social media post, and every Christmas carol reminds me of how far I feel from the "ideal" holiday season.” Keep an eye out for these common red flags this holiday season:
Comparison Culture: Social media and advertisements paint a picture of perfect families and joyous celebrations, leading many to feel inadequate or disconnected.
Substance Use and Behavioral Challenges: Increased alcohol use, family tensions, and unresolved traumas often come to the surface during holiday gatherings.
Loneliness and Isolation: For individuals with disabilities, addiction struggles, or estranged family relationships, the holidays can highlight a lack of inclusion or connection.
Grief and Loss: The absence of loved ones can make traditions feel bittersweet or unbearable.
On top of these challenges, many parents face added anxiety trying to create the perfect holiday for their children. “I put immense pressure on myself to ensure my kids have happy memories. But in trying to do it all, I’ve found myself feeling drained, irritable, and guilty for not being more present,” Rebecca shares. “The mental health struggles I face year-round seem to amplify during this season, leaving me feeling isolated in my sadness.” Recognizing these feelings and sharing them with trusted friends or loved ones can be a vital step toward relief.
Unwrapping the Truth: Holiday Mental Health by the Numbers
Understanding the impact of the holiday season on mental health is crucial for fostering empathy and providing appropriate support. Recent studies highlight the challenges many face during this time:
Increased Stress Levels: An article by the American Psychological Association found that 89% of U.S. adults experience heightened stress during the holidays, with 41% reporting an increase in stress levels during this period.
Financial Concerns: Financial pressures are a significant source of holiday stress. In 2023, 58% of Americans cited affording holiday gifts as a major concern.
Impact on Existing Mental Health Conditions: The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that 64% of individuals with mental health conditions feel that the holidays exacerbate their struggles.
Age-Related Stress Differences: Younger adults report higher levels of holiday-related stress. Over half (54%) of individuals aged 18 to 34 express concerns about affording holiday gifts, compared to 38% of those aged 65 and older.
Loneliness and Isolation: A 2023 survey revealed that 46% of respondents lack sufficient alone time during the holiday season, despite 56% acknowledging that solitude is vital for their mental health.
These statistics underscore the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health challenges during the holiday season. By fostering open conversations and providing support, we can help alleviate some of the burdens our loved ones face during this time. Finding hope in the holidays doesn’t just mean understanding these challenges, but offering empathy and support for our loved ones, as well.
Spotting the Signs: Early Mental Health Red Flags
Early detection of mental health challenges during the holidays is crucial. Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, irritability, or an increase in risky behaviors, may signal that someone is struggling. Keeping an open line of communication is key:
Check-In Regularly: A simple “How are you feeling?” can go a long way in making someone feel seen.
Look Beyond the Surface: Often, stress and behavioral issues in both children and adults mask deeper feelings of sadness, fear, or loneliness.
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest speaking to a therapist or counselor if someone’s struggles feel overwhelming.
Practicing Self-Care and Resilience
Additionally, Rebecca’s story highlights the importance of self-care, simplifying expectations, and finding moments of gratitude. Here are some of Rebecca’s favorite actionable ways to prioritize your own mental health during the holidays:
Let Go of Perfection: Traditions don’t have to be elaborate or Instagram-worthy. Focus on what feels meaningful and manageable.
Set Boundaries: Limit interactions that feel toxic or draining, and don’t be afraid to say no to events or activities.
Simplify Traditions: Instead of sticking to laborious, outdated traditions, focus on creating connections in a way that brings you and your family joy. Whether it’s baking cookies, watching a favorite movie, or simply sitting together, small moments can create lasting memories.
Prioritize Mental Health: Take breaks when you need them, even during the busiest times. Whether it’s a walk, journaling, or simply sitting in silence with a cup of tea, carving out moments for self-care helps recharge your energy.
Lean on Support Networks: Whether it’s a friend, a support group, or a community resource, don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it.
Practice Gratitude in Small Doses: Gratitude can feel impossible when you’re struggling but noticing small joys like the warmth of a blanket, the sparkle of holiday lights, or the sound of laughter can help create moments of peace.
According to Rebecca, “Finding hope in the holidays has been a journey. It’s not about doing everything perfectly; it’s about being present in the ways that matter most for myself and my family.”
Spreading Holiday Hope: Small Acts, Big Impact
Finally, if you’re supporting a loved one through the holidays, remember that small gestures can make a big difference. Invite them to share their feelings, include them in traditions, or offer practical help, like running errands or preparing meals.
Rebecca’s message to those who are struggling resonates deeply: “Your feelings don’t define your worth. Give yourself grace this season. It’s not about creating a flawless holiday but about showing up with love, however imperfect that may look.”
The Lycoming-Clinton System of Care is here to help individuals and families find light in the darkness. If you or someone you love is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Together, we can navigate the challenges of seeking mental health support and create moments of connection and hope.
Finding hope in the holidays can start with small steps toward connection and care. Don’t hesitate to contact us directly if we can be of any assistance. Let’s make this holiday season a time of understanding, compassion, and hope – one imperfect, beautiful moment at a time.
24/7 Crisis Intervention: Immediate Support When You Need It
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or wellness crisis, immediate support is available. The Lycoming-Clinton System of Care partners with the Center for Community Resources (CCR) to offer 24/7 crisis intervention services. You can reach them by phone at 1-844-707-3224, by texting 63288, or through their chat service at www.ccrinfo.org.
A Special Message from Rebecca for Moms Who Struggle
If you’re a mom who finds the holidays hard, I want you to know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel sad, stressed, or even hopeless during this time. Your feelings don’t define your worth, and they certainly don’t make you a bad mother.
Give yourself grace this season. Remember, it’s not about creating a flawless holiday but about showing up with love, however imperfect that may look. Sometimes, just being present is enough.
This year, I’m choosing to embrace the messiness of the season and remind myself that hope isn’t about erasing the hard parts – it’s about finding light in the midst of them. And if you’re struggling too, I hope you can find your light, no matter how small it may seem.
You are not alone. Together, we can make it through the holidays – one imperfect, beautiful moment at a time.
Rebecca Foust is the Lead Family Coordinator with the Lycoming-Clinton System of Care. She is also a mother with lived experience navigating both her own mental health challenges and supporting children with unique needs.