10 Tips to Combat the Holiday Blues 

---

The holiday is supposed to be filled with joy, but sometimes, all those expectations for a picture-perfect celebration can leave you feeling stressed or exhausted. If you’re not feeling the holiday cheer, don’t worry — it’s more common than you might think. However, there are practical ways to combat the holiday blues and find peace and joy as the season rolls around.

Breaking It Down: What Are the Holiday Blues?

Holiday sadness is a feeling of sadness or anxiety that creeps in right when everyone else seems to be in full holiday mode. While the season is filled with glittering lights and celebrations, for some, it can also bring feelings of loneliness, stress or even nostalgia for better times. 

The pressure to create a “perfect” holiday experience, complete with ideal family gatherings and endless gift-giving, can lead to disappointment and burnout. When things don’t match the vision, the contrast can leave you feeling down, like you’re missing out on the joy everyone else seems to be having. 

For many, the festive season brings up memories of lost loved ones or past relationships, reminding you of things that once were. This time of year can amplify isolation, especially if you’re physically far from family or friends while dealing with personal challenges. Add to this the shorter days, colder weather and a whirlwind of obligations and deadlines, it’s easy to see why the holiday blues are so common. 

What Causes These Feelings?

The holiday blues can sneak up on anyone, fueled by a mix of factors that make this season feel heavier than expected. Here are some common causes of the holiday blues:

• The pressure to create a picture-perfect holiday can feel overwhelming and lead to stress.
• Holiday shopping, travel and extra expenses can add up quickly, creating financial stress that can dampen the holiday spirit.
• Being away from family and friends or not having close connections nearby can amplify feelings of isolation.
• Missing loved ones who’ve passed can make this time of year feel bittersweet.
• Social overwhelm can feel exhausting and create anxiety.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common in winter months, affecting around 5% of American adults, with less sunlight leading to lower energy levels and a dip in mood.
• Spending extended time with family can bring up unresolved conflicts or stress.
• The season can throw your regular routine out of sync, making it harder to get enough sleep, exercise or self-care.

10 Tips to Beat the Blues

If the holiday blues dampen your holiday spirit, there are ways to lift your mood and make the most of the season. Here are some practical tips to help you beat the blues and find joy in the little moments this festive period:

1. Opt for Alcohol-Free Drinks

Swapping holiday cocktails for alcohol-free options can make a world of difference in keeping your mood and energy up. Try spiced cider, festive mocktails, soda or sparkling water with fruit slices. It’s refreshing to stray clear-headed, and you’ll feel better while fully enjoying the company around you.

2. Prioritize Quality Time

Rather than overloading on events, focus on meaningful connections with the people who make you happy and put you at ease. Whether it’s a cozy movie night or an afternoon baking cookies, these small, intimate moments will feel more rewarding than juggling a dozen holiday parties.

3. Keep Your Body Moving

With all the holiday excitement, it’s easy to skip exercise, but a quick walk, dance or even a winter hike can boost your mood and energy level. Movement releases endorphins, helps reduce stress and keeps you feeling ready for anything the season brings.

4. Make Plans to Keep Yourself Busy

If you’re facing a quieter holiday season, creating your own plans can be a fun way to lift your spirits. Make a bucket list of winter activities like ice skating, a holiday movie marathon, building a snowman or starting a DIY project. Keeping busy with things you love keeps you focused on the present rather than feeling lonely or bored.

5. Spend Some Time in the Sun

Natural light is a fantastic source of vitamin D, an instant mood booster, so soak up as much sunlight as you can. Even a few minutes outside in the winter sun can recharge your batteries and improve your outlook. And if it’s gloomy, consider a vitamin D supplement to ward off the winter blues.

6. Avoid Doom Scrolling

Resist the urge to scroll endlessly through social media, which can lead to comparing your holiday to everyone else’s highlight reel. Instead, focus on what’s around you — read a book, call a friend, watch a comfort movie or enjoy a mindful activity. The break will leave you feeling lighter and more connected to the here and now.

7. Honor Those You’ve Lost

If you’re missing loved ones during the holidays, finding small ways to remember them can bring you comfort. It’s a way to keep them close in spirit and cherish their memory. Here are some ideas of how you can honor them this season:

• Light a candle in their memory.
• Make their favorite holiday dish.
• Hang an ornament that represents them on your tree or mantlepiece. 
• Play their favorite song.
• Take a moment of silence during your celebration. 
• Visit a place they loved. 

8. Look to the Future

The holidays can make you nostalgic, but remember to set your sights forward. Think about the new memories you’ll create, new people you might meet and the goals you want to chase. Focusing on the future keeps the season feeling fresh and full of possibility. 

9. Treat Yourself

Make self-care a priority by treating yourself to something special. Maybe that’s a new book, a cozy blanket, a spa day or a small shopping spree. Even small gestures of self-love remind you you’re worth the care and attention, making your holiday feel a little brighter. Self-care rituals are a wonderful way to reduce stress and get you feeling back to yourself. 

10. Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out for Help

If your holiday sadness doesn’t pass after the season, there’s no shame in talking to someone about it. Whether it’s a trusted friend or a mental health professional, reaching out can be a game-changer. Sometimes, just sharing your feelings can lighten the load.

Beat the Holiday Sadness

This season, give yourself the same kindness you’d offer to someone else. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, but that can only happen if you put yourself first. By taking steps to manage the holiday blues, you’ll set yourself up to savor the parts of the season that truly bring joy.