The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness… but for many, it can also bring about holiday anxiety and stress. The whirlwind of parties, shopping, decorating, and socializing can become overwhelming. Our founder, Nicolle Osequeda, was recently featured in this article for Refinery29 on the value of self-care practices and anti-anxiety tools when struggling with anxiety, OCD or depression during the holidays.
According to Nicolle, “incorporating these tools into your daily routine, you can manage your anxiety more effectively and improve your overall well-being.” Be sure to read the full article to learn these tools and practice self-care at all times of the year, even the holidays: 15 Best Anti-Anxiety Gifts For Your Self-Care Routine, According To Therapists (click here to read the article).
In addition to the tips mentioned in the Refinery29 article, here are some other simple strategies to help you manage holiday anxiety amidst the busyness.
Practice Mindfulness and Presence
Cultivating mindfulness and presence is vital amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Take time to breathe deeply and anchor yourself in the present moment. Engage in activities like aromatherapy, meditation, yoga, or journaling that promote relaxation and self-awareness. These practices calm your nervous system and help to restore a sense of inner peace and balance, enabling you to navigate the holiday rush with grace. Nicolle suggests using aromatherapy as a tool to relax, “Inhaling a scent that you like or using an oil diffuser can release serotonin and dopamine, which are chemicals in the brain that can improve your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety.”
Set Realistic Expectations
A pivotal step in managing holiday anxiety is setting realistic expectations for yourself. Recognize that you can’t do it all, and that’s perfectly okay. Reflect on what truly matters to you this season… whether it’s quality time with family, festive events with friends, moments of solitude, or cherished traditions, identify what brings you joy and prioritize those activities.
Embrace Boundaries
Establishing and maintaining boundaries is a crucial aspect of managing holiday anxiety. Recognizing your limits and then communicating your limits and needs to loved ones is important (and don’t be afraid to say no when necessary). This empowers you to conserve your energy for activities aligned with your priorities and values.
Take Breaks When Needed
Amidst the holiday festivities, remember the importance of giving yourself permission to take breaks. If gatherings or activities begin to feel overwhelming, take some time to step outside or retreat to a quiet space. A simple walk in nature, listening to calming music, or practicing a few minutes of deep breathing can help reset your emotions. Breaks are essential to prevent burnout and help you return to the celebration feeling more centered and energized.
Seek Support to Manage Holiday Anxiety
Remember, you don’t have to navigate holiday anxiety alone. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or professionals for support. Sharing your feelings and concerns can provide valuable perspective and comfort.
Approaching the holiday season with a spirit of self-compassion and mindfulness is essential. By setting realistic expectations, prioritizing self-care, and embracing boundaries, you can find serenity amidst the busyness. As Nicolle puts it, the most meaningful gift you can offer your loved ones is a well-nurtured and present version of yourself. Here’s to a holiday season filled with peace, joy, and well-being.
If you find yourself overcome with anxiety this holiday season and want some extra support, don’t be afraid to reach out to us or schedule time to see one of our therapists. We know how overwhelming the holidays can be for some people and would be honored to support you.
Additional Articles on Managing Holiday Anxiety
A Guide To Prepare For The Holidays : Keep Calm & Holiday On – Anxiety and depression can really peak during the holidays for lots of reasons. Overscheduling, breaking away from routines, and letting self-care slip stack up against us, leaving us feeling more vulnerable than usual.
Beyond the Festivities: Strategies for Overcoming Post-Holiday Blues – Techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or guided meditation can help you stay present and reduce anxiety about the past or future.
Featured Photo by Vlada Karpovich from Pexels
Nicolle Osequeda, LMFT, is the founder of Lincoln Park Therapy Group, specializing in anxiety, depression, and relationship counseling in Chicago. As a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator, she incorporates Dr. Brené Brown’s research into her therapy. Nicolle holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco and is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois and California. She is a Clinical Fellow of AAMFT, a member of IAMFT, and the Financial Therapy Association. Nicolle has Gottman Method training and has taught at DePaul University, dedicated to helping individuals and couples achieve meaningful change. 
