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Holiday Self-Care Guide: 10 Small Ways to Protect Your Mental Health

by | Nov 21, 2025 | Mental Health, Self-Care

The holidays can be a time of connection and celebration, but they can also bring stress, exhaustion, and emotional overwhelm. Between social commitments, financial pressure, family expectations, and disrupted routines, it is easy to lose sight of your own needs.  

Here are ten ways to support your mental health through the holidays:

  1. Set Manageable Expectations

You do not need a perfect holiday. Social media often bombards us with idealized images of what the holidays should look like, creating pressure to meet unrealistic standards. This focus on perfection can drive unnecessary consumption instead of nurturing meaningful connections with family and friends. Lowering expectations reduces burnout and creates more space for enjoyment. 

  1. Protect Your Rest

Busy schedules can quickly interfere with sleep. Prioritize bedtime when possible and allow yourself quiet downtime after social events. Rest fuels emotional resilience. 

  1. Create a Spending Plan

Financial strain is one of the biggest sources of holiday stress. Decide in advance what you can comfortably spend on gifts, food, and events. Sticking to your budget reduces worry and guilt. 

  1. Take Breaks from Social Gatherings

Even positive social events can be draining. Give yourself permission to step outside for air, leave early, or skip events altogether if you feel overwhelmed. 

  1. Nourish Your Body

Aim for balance rather than restriction. Enjoy treats but also make time for nourishing meals that sustain your energy and mood. 

  1. Stay Active in Gentle Ways

Movement supports mental health, reduces tension, and boosts serotonin. A short walk, stretching, or light exercise can make a meaningful difference during busy weeks. 

  1. Set Boundaries with Family and Friends

Not all holiday interactions are easy. Clearly communicate limits around time, topics, or expectations. Healthy boundaries protect your emotional wellbeing. 

  1. Make Time for Something Just for You

Amid gift-giving and hosting, carve out a small ritual that brings you joy — reading, music, journaling, crafting, or simply sitting somewhere calm. 

  1. Limit Comparison

Social media can create unrealistic expectations about what holidays “should” look like. Remind yourself that online snapshots do not tell the full story. Focus on what feels authentic to you. 

  1. Ask for Help When You Need It

If you feel overwhelmed, low, or emotionally stuck, reach out. Talking to loved ones, scheduling a therapy session, or connecting with a support line can provide grounding and relief. 

 

Reviewed and edited by Hannah Robinson RP (Registered Psychotherapist) at Finding Solutions Together.