The holiday season is often described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many people, it can also be one of the most stressful. From financial pressures and family expectations to travel plans and packed schedules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At United Psychological Services, we understand how these challenges can impact your mental wellness and overall health, and we’re here to help you find balance and peace this holiday season.
Understanding Holiday Stress and Anxiety
Feeling anxious or drained during the holidays is more common than you might think. Between social gatherings, disrupted routines, and emotional triggers, stress levels can rise quickly. You may notice:
- Trouble sleeping or relaxing
- Feeling irritable or short-tempered
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite or motivation
- A sense of guilt, loneliness, or sadness
These are often signs of holiday anxiety, which can stem from perfectionism, grief, or the pressure to make everything “just right.” For some, it can even exacerbate existing mental health conditions such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD).
If you’re feeling emotionally exhausted, a psychological evaluation or consultation can help uncover underlying causes and guide the right treatment plan. At United Psychological Services, our experienced clinicians provide psychological testing, behavioral therapy, and stress-management techniques to help you manage anxiety effectively.
Tips for Managing Holiday Stress and Anxiety
While it’s impossible to eliminate stress entirely, you can take proactive steps to keep it under control. Here are a few expert-backed strategies from our clinical team:
- Set Realistic Expectations
The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Let go of unrealistic goals or comparisons and focus on what brings genuine joy. Remember, saying no is an act of self-care.
- Prioritize Rest and Routine
Lack of sleep and irregular schedules can make stress worse. Stick to a consistent bedtime, eat balanced meals, and make time for exercise or quiet reflection each day.
- Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation
Simple techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or guided meditation can reduce tension and help you stay grounded. Many of these strategies are part of our programs and can be learned with the support of a therapist.
- Connect with Supportive People
If family dynamics are difficult, spend time with friends, community groups, or supportive networks. Group therapy can also be a powerful way to share experiences and learn coping strategies from others facing similar challenges.
- Limit Alcohol, Caffeine, and Screen Time
These can heighten anxiety and disrupt sleep. Try replacing late-night scrolling with an evening walk or a calming playlist.
When to Seek Professional Help
If stress or anxiety begin to interfere with your daily life, relationships, or ability to enjoy the season, professional support can make all the difference. United Psychological Services offers a range of mental health counseling and therapeutic services, including:
- Anxiety therapy
- Telehealth therapy
- Child, adolescent, and adult psychological evaluations
- Individual, couples, and group therapy sessions
Our licensed psychologists and therapists create individualized care plans to help you regain control and improve your mental wellbeing, whether you prefer in-person appointments or online therapy sessions from the comfort of home.
Find Peace and Joy This Season
The holidays can be a time of reflection, connection, and renewal, but only if you give yourself permission to slow down and care for your own needs. At United Psychological Services, we’re committed to supporting your journey toward mental wellness through compassionate, evidence-based care.
If you or someone you love is struggling with stress or anxiety this holiday season, reach out to our team to learn more about our counseling and psychology clinic and how we can help.
United Psychological Services, helping Michigan families find hope, healing, and balance through every season.
