It's OK If the Holidays Are Hard This Year

The holidays are supposed to be the "most wonderful time of year." But for a lot of us, they bring stress, sadness, and worry instead of joy.

If the holidays feel harder this year, the numbers back you up. According to a recent American Psychiatric Association poll, 41% of Americans anticipate more holiday stress in 2025 than in 2024. And that number has climbed since 2023.

Clearly, if you're struggling right now, you're not alone. And it's OK to ask for help.

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When the Holidays Feel Heavy

The holiday season can be hard for so many reasons.

Maybe your family gatherings feel more like battlegrounds than celebrations. Perhaps you're missing someone who's no longer at the table, and the empty chair feels impossible to ignore.

Money worries can make everything worse. When everyone else seems to be buying gifts and planning big meals, financial stress can leave you feeling ashamed or left out.

Some people feel lonely even in a crowded room. If you're far from family, recently lost someone, or just don't have close connections, the holidays can feel painfully isolating.

And if you're in recovery or struggling with substance use, this season can be especially challenging. Holiday parties, family stress, and old traditions can all trigger the urge to use.

You Don't Have to Push Through It By Yourself

Here's what we've learned after years of supporting our community: struggling during the holidays doesn't mean something is wrong with you. It means you're human.

But struggling alone is harder than it needs to be.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or grief, talking to a counselor can help. Our outpatient therapy services give you a safe space to work through what you're feeling.

Think of it like having a guide when you're lost. Someone who can help you find your way through the hard parts.

When It's More Than Stress

Sometimes, holiday struggles become a mental health crisis. If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, please don't wait.

5 signs that someone needs crisis support include:

1. Talking about wanting to hurt themselves

2. Giving away important belongings

3. Saying goodbye like they won't see people again

4. Sudden mood changes after a period of depression

5. Increased substance use

   
   

Our Crisis Wellness Center stabilization services are here 24/7. We can help when things feel out of control and you need support right away.

4 Small Steps Make a Difference

While you're considering reaching out, here are some reminders that might help:

1. Give yourself permission to skip events that drain you

2. Set boundaries with family members who stress you out

3. Connect with one person who makes you feel good

4. Remember that social media isn't real life. Everyone struggles sometimes.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You deserve support. Whether you're dealing with grief, anxiety, family conflict, or something else, we're here to help.

For less urgent needs like ongoing stress, anxiety, or grief, call us to schedule an outpatient therapy appointment. We'll match you with a counselor who understands what you're going through.

For mental health crises, reach out to our crisis stabilization team immediately. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - including holidays. Just walk in to our Crisis Wellness Center at 3200 Broad Ave. Memphis TN 38112.

The holidays don't have to be perfect to be okay. And you don't have to handle everything on your own.

Let us help.