The festive season is often portrayed as a time of joy, warmth, and celebration. For some, it is but for many others, Christmas can bring feelings of stress, sadness, loneliness, or emotional overwhelm.
As counsellors, we see this every year — people silently struggling under the weight of expectations, memories, and emotional triggers that surface during this time of year. If that’s you, please know that you’re not alone, and your feelings are valid.
Christmas often highlights the absence of loved ones whether through bereavement, estrangement, or life changes. This might be your first Christmas without someone, or one of many where their absence still aches. You might feel pressure to “stay strong” for others, or keep the traditions going even when your heart isn’t in it. You don’t have to put on a brave face. It’s okay to feel your grief.
Not everyone has close friends or family nearby and even when surrounded by others, some people still feel alone.
This can be particularly true for older adults living alone, for young people away from home and for those experiencing relationship breakdowns or estrangement. Loneliness doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. It means you’re human and that your need for connection is natural.
Even loving families can find Christmas challenging. Past tensions, unspoken resentments, or simply the stress of the season can bring emotional strain. You may find yourself dreading certain gatherings, feeling like you have to “keep the peace”, or struggling with old dynamics. You’re allowed to protect your emotional space. Boundaries are not unkind — they are self-respect in action.
With rising living costs, Christmas can bring significant financial stress. The pressure to buy gifts, host meals, or “make it special” can lead to anxiety, guilt, or shame. Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. What matters most is presence and connection, not the presents.
From endless to-do lists to managing others’ expectations, the festive season can leave many people feeling drained emotionally and physically. It’s okay to slow down. You don’t have to do everything and you don’t have to do it perfectly.
• Acknowledge your feelings whatever they are, without judgement.
• Say no when you need to and honour your own boundaries.
• Create new traditions that suit your current needs and values.
• Connect in small ways even a short phone call or walk with a friend can help.
• Seek support whether from a loved one, a support group, or a trained therapist.
If the festive season feels difficult, counselling can offer a calm, non-judgemental space to talk things through. Whether you’re navigating grief, anxiety, family challenges, or simply feeling emotionally exhausted, you’re not alone — and support is available.
You don’t have to “wait until January” to take care of your mental heal. This Christmas, give yourself permission to feel, to rest, and to prioritise your own wellbeing.
The Eaves Counselling and Psychology has been supporting the community for over 20 years. As a trusted professional body of Counsellors, Psychotherapists and Psychologists, we provide high-quality psychological care Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 9pm, at our practices in Guildford, Godalming, Farnham, Haslemere, and online.
Are you a business owner, or would you like more support in your workplace? The Eaves offers its own Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for small to medium-sized businesses. Our service is simple, affordable, and gives staff instant access to our large team of in-house Counsellors and Psychologists, at a time that works for them.
If you require urgent support, please see our useful contacts page.