Hope for the holidays
For many people, the holiday season brings up mental images of joyful gatherings, thoughtful traditions, and time with loved ones. But the reality is often more complicated.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, sadness, or pressure to “feel festive,” you’re not alone. Explore this page to learn more about holiday stress and find tools for support and comfort.
Managing holiday challenges
The holidays can stir up stress, loneliness, grief, family conflict, anxiety, sadness, and many other challenges. This time of year can be especially difficult for people living with a mental health condition. The resources below explore some common holiday challenges and offer suggestions to help you manage them.
I don't know how to handle holiday stress
Webinar
Mourning holiday traditions
How to handle holiday stress
Advice from MHA's supporters
Making the holidays happy(er)
Webinar
I hate the holidays
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
How to navigate alcohol addiction recovery over the holidays
Navigating holiday stress for parents
11 ways to support youth this holiday season
Handling the holidays in a non-LGBTQ+ affirming environment
Webinar
Winter break survival tips for college students
Finding hope
Hope is still possible this season, even if the holidays feel hard. The resources below can help you manage tough emotions, find moments of peace, and build a holiday season that feels healthier and more manageable.
Manage tough emotions
Find moments of peace
10 affirmations to remind you of your power
Cooking with care: A collection of MHA staff favorites (PDF)
Embracing winter wellness: Navigating the season with mindful practices (webinar)
Guided activity: Take a break and reflect
Journaling for wellness: Exploring benefits, techniques, and lived experiences (webinar)
Mindful momentum: Breathing through transitions (webinar)
Reads for rest, relaxation, and joy: Recommendations from MHA staff (PDF)
Holiday harmony: Mindfully reset your mental well-being (webinar)
Additional MHA resources
31 tips to boost your mental health
Caring for your mind and money
For families: Recognizing warning signs and how to cope
Is my family dysfunctional?
Social support: Getting and staying connected
What's the difference between anxiety and being stressed?
Partner resources
In crisis? 24/7 help is available
Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
This resource is sponsored by Elevance Health.
