The Holidays: Joyful, Stressful, and Everything In Between 🎄✨
- Safe Place Therapy
- Dec 19, 2025
- 2 min read
The holidays are often called “the most wonderful time of the year,” but they can also bring stress, emotional fatigue, and tricky family dynamics. Between gatherings, expectations, and pressure to feel joyful, it’s easy to lose sight of your own needs.
At Safe Place, we remind clients (and ourselves!) that the holidays can be both lovely and challenging. You can love your family while finding certain interactions draining 💛. You can cherish traditions while needing a break. You can want connection—but on your terms.
You are not a bad person for needing this. You are human.
The Emotional Pressure of the Holidays 😅
There’s an unspoken expectation to be cheerful, available, and “on” for everyone. But your comfort, energy, and wellbeing matter most.
Ask yourself: “What do I actually need this season to feel grounded, supported, and okay?”
Setting Healthy Boundaries 🛑
Boundaries protect your best self so you can show up authentically instead of resentful or exhausted. Here are some examples with scripts you can use:
1. Time Boundaries ⏰
“I’d love to come, but I’ll need to head out around 8.”
“I can stop by earlier, but evenings don’t work well for me right now.”
2. Conversation Boundaries 💬
“I’m not comfortable discussing that today.”
“Let’s switch topics; that one’s a bit heavy for me.”
3. Behaviour Boundaries 🚦
“If voices get raised, I’m stepping outside for a moment.”
“I won’t stay in conversations where I feel criticized.”
4. Availability Boundaries 📅
“I can attend one gathering this week, but not multiple.”
“I won’t be able to host this year, but I hope it’s a wonderful time for everyone.”
5. Emotional Boundaries ❤️
“I understand you might feel differently, but this is my choice this year.”
“I can’t take on that emotional load right now, but I care about you.”
Sometimes a boundary doesn’t need words—your choice alone is enough.
Coping When Family Feels Difficult 🌀
Even with boundaries, family time can be overwhelming. Try:
Micro-breaks: Step outside, stretch, or find a quiet space 🌿
Emotional anchors: Text a friend, carry a comforting item, or check in with a safe person 🪢
Plan decompression: Warm drink, bath, comfort show, or quiet time afterward 🛁
Remember: Others’ reactions are not your responsibility.
Redefine the Holidays for Yourself 🎁
Create a season that feels safe, peaceful, and aligned with your needs. That might mean:
Embracing traditions
Doing things differently this year
Saying no, leaving early, or doing less
✨ Start Your New Year Refreshed! ✨
If you want support setting boundaries, coping with family stress, or simply starting 2026 feeling grounded, reach out to us! Click the button below to begin your journey to a refreshing start:
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