Andrea Piacquadio
The holidays are often described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many people, they can also be the most stressful. Between shopping, family gatherings, financial strain, travel, and end-of-year work deadlines, it’s no wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed.
The good news is that while we can’t always control what’s happening around us, we can learn to manage our responses and protect our well-being. Here are some practical strategies to help you navigate the holiday season with more peace and joy.
Set realistic expectations
The pressure to create a “perfect” holiday can leave us feeling exhausted and disappointed. Social media and advertising only add to the illusion that everyone else’s celebrations are flawless. In reality, the most meaningful moments often come from imperfection, the burnt cookies that still taste great, the quick phone call that brightens a loved one’s day, or the simple act of being present.
Give yourself permission to do less. Prioritize the traditions and gatherings that truly matter to you and let go of the rest. When you lower the bar from “perfect” to “good enough,” you’ll often find the joy that was missing before.
Maintain healthy habits
Routines tend to go out the window during the holidays, but maintaining some consistency helps your body and mind stay balanced.
Stay active. Even short walks, stretching, or light exercise can reduce tension and boost your mood.
Eat mindfully. Enjoy your favorite holiday foods, but try to balance heavier meals with lighter, nutritious options.
Get enough sleep. Late nights, travel, and disrupted schedules can wear you down quickly. Make rest a priority so you can fully enjoy your time with others.
Limit alcohol and caffeine. Both can increase anxiety and interfere with sleep quality.
Small choices, like drinking a glass of water between social events or carving out ten quiet minutes for deep breathing can make a big difference in how you feel.
Recognize and manage emotional triggers
For some, the holidays bring feelings of sadness, loneliness, or grief. Maybe it’s the first season without a loved one, or perhaps family dynamics are complicated. These emotions are completely valid.
If you find yourself struggling, try reaching out to a friend, a faith community, or a mental health professional. Sometimes just talking about what you’re feeling can lighten the load. Journaling, mindfulness, and gratitude exercises can also help shift perspective and remind you of what remains meaningful in your life.
Jessica Osman, DO, is with UPMC Pediatrics and sees patients at UPMC Susquehanna Pediatrics at South Williamsport, 6 East Mountain Avenue. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Osman, call (570) 321-1665. For more information, visit UPMC.com/PediatricsNCPA.
UPMC in North Central Pa.
Focus on connection over perfection
What most people remember about the holidays isn’t how perfectly the gifts were wrapped or how well the meal turned out, it’s how they felt. Shared laughter, a handwritten card, or simply spending time together can mean more than anything bought in a store.
Consider giving experiences instead of things, volunteering as a family, or finding ways to help those in need. Acts of kindness have been shown to lower stress, improve mood, and even benefit physical health.
Take time to reflect
As the year comes to a close, set aside quiet moments to reflect on what went well and what you’d like to change in the new year. Gratitude journaling, writing down even a few things you’re thankful for, can reframe your mindset and improve your overall outlook.
The holiday season doesn’t have to leave you feeling depleted. By setting boundaries, caring for your body, and focusing on what truly matters, you can find calm in the chaos and rediscover the joy this time of year is meant to bring.
And if you notice that stress, anxiety, or sadness are becoming overwhelming or persistent, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Talking with your primary care provider or a behavioral health professional can help you find healthy ways to cope and feel more like yourself again.
This season, give yourself the gift of grace because your health and peace of mind are worth protecting all year long.
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Error! There was an error processing your request.
Get Our Free Newsletters
Never miss a headline with NorthcentralPa.com newsletters.
Sign Up Today!
Morning Headlines: Would you like to receive our daily morning newsletter?
Afternoon Update: What’s happening today? Here’s your update!
Daily Obits: Get a daily list straight to your email inbox.
Keep your news local
Access to independent, local news is important, do you agree?
We work hard to deliver timely, relevant news, for free. 100% of your contribution to NorthcentralPa.com goes directly to helping us cover news and events in the region.
Thank you for saying that local news matters!