Thankful, Not Stressed: 5 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health
The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and togetherness but it can also bring financial pressure, overscheduling, family conflicts, and emotional overwhelm. Protecting your mental health now can help you enjoy the season with more peace, gratitude, and energy.
Holiday stress can also weaken your immune system. For additional family wellness support, you may also like our article on Immune-Boosting Tips for the Whole Family This Fall.
1. Set Realistic Expectations for the Holidays
Trying to create a “perfect” holiday often leads to unnecessary stress. Instead, focus on what matters most quality time, meaningful traditions, and realistic goals for celebrations, cooking, and gift-giving.
Start by simplifying your to-do list. Small changes can reduce anxiety and help you stay grounded throughout the season.
2. Create Healthy Boundaries With Your Time
Holiday calendars fill up fast. Setting boundaries protects your emotional energy and prevents burnout.
Say yes to what aligns with your values and kindly decline activities that add stress or don’t serve your well-being.
If your children are involved in school events this season, our article on When to Keep Your Child Home from School may also be helpful.
3. Prioritize Consistent, Restful Sleep
Lack of sleep increases stress, irritability, and overwhelm. The CDC notes that consistent sleep helps regulate mood and supports healthy stress responses.
Aim for 7–9 hours each night even during busy weeks.
If your digestive system feels off during the holiday rush, pair sleep support with gut-friendly habits from our article Gut Health 101.
4. Move Your Body Daily to Reduce Stress
Physical activity naturally lowers stress hormones like cortisol. You don’t need a long workout try:
a brisk walk
stretching before bed
a quick yoga video
dancing while cleaning or cooking
Movement also boosts immunity, especially helpful during cold and flu season.
5. Practice Gratitude to Strengthen Mental Wellness
Gratitude improves emotional resilience and reduces stress. According to Harvard Health, practicing gratitude can increase happiness and strengthen relationships.
Easy ways to use gratitude this season include:
writing 3 things you’re thankful for each morning
sharing gratitude during dinner
keeping a family gratitude jar
For more tips on supporting your family’s wellness, explore our seasonal article Back-to-School Health Checklist for Kids in Silver Spring.
When to Seek Support
If stress affects your sleep, mood, appetite, or relationships, contact your primary care provider. Mental health is just as important as physical health—especially during busy seasons.
For personalized care or mental health guidance, please feel free to contact us.
❓ FAQ: Holiday Mental Health
Why do the holidays increase stress?
Holiday expectations, financial pressure, travel, and family dynamics can raise stress levels.
What are quick ways to reduce stress at home?
Deep breathing, a short walk, hydration, and setting boundaries can quickly lower stress.
How does gratitude support mental health?
Gratitude helps shift focus to positive experiences and lowers anxiety.
When should I see a doctor about stress?
If stress disrupts your daily life, sleep, appetite, or mood, schedule a visit with your primary care provider.
🔗 Trusted Health Resources
Harvard Health – In Praise of Gratitude: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/in-praise-of-gratitude
CDC – Healthy Sleep: https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/index.html
