The holiday season often is painted as a picture of joy, twinkling lights, beautifully wrapped gifts and family gathered around the table. But for many women, this time of year brings something much heavier: stress, anxiety and even depression.
I think of a client I once worked with who shared that every December, she felt like she was “holding her breath” until January. Between planning holiday meals, finding the perfect gifts, hosting family and keeping up with work, she felt pulled in every direction. On top of that, she carried the emotional weight of wanting everyone else to be happy, leaving little room to take care of herself. If you can relate, know that you are not alone.
Women often bear the invisible load of the holidays. We are the planners, organizers, and emotional anchors for our families and communities. While that role can be rewarding, it can also create intense pressure. Add financial strain, complicated family dynamics, or grief over lost loved ones, and the season quickly shifts from merry to overwhelming.
WHY THIS TIME OF YEAR CAN BE HARD
Stress hormones spike when we’re juggling too much. Anxiety creeps in when expectations feel impossible to meet. Depression can follow when exhaustion sets in or when the season highlights feelings of loneliness or loss. Studies show that women are more likely than men to experience holiday-related depression, in part because of these competing roles and expectations.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
So how do we manage it? The first step is giving yourself permission to let go of perfection. The meal doesn’t have to be flawless, and the gifts don’t need to break your budget. What matters most is connection and presence.
HERE ARE A FEW SIMPLE STRATEGIES THAT CAN HELP:
- Set boundaries: Say “no” to what doesn’t serve you or your family. It’s okay to decline an extra event or tradition if it adds more stress than joy.
- Create moments of rest: Even 10 minutes of quiet spent sipping tea, journaling or taking a short walk can reset your mind and body.
- Ask for help: Don’t carry it all alone. Share tasks with your partner, children or friends.
- Check in on your emotions: If you feel overwhelmed with sadness or anxiety, reach out to a trusted friend, faith leader or mental health professional.
Most importantly, remember that your well-being matters. When women care for themselves, they are better able to care for those around them. This holiday season, give yourself permission to not just “do” the holidays but to experience them with intention and grace.
Peace, joy and wholeness aren’t just gifts we can give to others; they are gifts we deserve, too.