Do you have the Festive Blues?

Ask a Therapist Is This Normal?
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Hi everyone!

The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, right? But for many, it’s not all cheer and joy—it can be a tough season. Feeling sad, stressed, or even a bit lost during the holidays is more common than you might think. It’s called festive depression, and it happens for a lot of reasons.

Maybe the pressure to have a “perfect” holiday feels overwhelming, or social media makes it seem like everyone else is living in a holiday movie. Loneliness, grief, financial stress, or just the shorter, darker days of winter can also play a big role.

Here are a few signs to look out for:

  • Feeling sad or down, even when things seem fine on the outside.
  • Avoiding social events or traditions.
  • Constant fatigue or low energy.
  • Changes in appetite or sleep (hello, endless naps or late-night snacks).
  • Feeling overwhelmed by the season’s expectations.

Actually, a lot of us have felt the weight of the holidays before, so if this is familiar to you, you’re not alone!

Does the holiday season ever feel heavy for you? What’s been helpful when you’re feeling low?

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Hi everyone!

From our previous post, we talked about how the holidays can sometimes feel heavy, and today we’re looking into practical ways to lighten the load when the holidays start to feel like too much. Here are a few ideas:

:star2: Set realistic expectations. Forget “perfect”—focus on what feels meaningful to you. It’s okay to skip things that don’t bring you joy or peace.

:star2: Plan small moments of rest. Even five minutes to breathe, sip a warm drink, or listen to your favorite song can help ground you.

:star2: Say no when needed. You don’t have to attend every event or meet every expectation. Protecting your energy is a gift to yourself.

:star2: Find connection in small ways. If loneliness is creeping in, try reaching out—a quick call or text to a loved one can make a difference.

:star2: Move your body (in a way you enjoy!). A short walk, stretching, or dancing to your favorite playlist can lift your mood.

:star2: Get support. Whether it’s from friends, family, or a counselor, talking about what you’re feeling can ease the burden.

The holidays don’t have to look a certain way. Your version of the season is valid—whether it’s quiet and cozy or full of celebration.

What’s one small thing you can do for yourself today to feel more at ease this season? Let us know below—we’d love to hear! :speech_balloon::sparkles: