The holidays can be full of magic: cozy nights, twinkling lights, warm meals, and time spent with loved ones. But let’s be real — they also often bring busy schedules, hustle, obligations, and, yes, stress. That’s why this season it’s worth pausing and thinking about how we can protect not just the traditions and the decorations, but our emotional wellbeing too.
These simple tips for reducing your stress and saving your mental health this holiday season are brought to you in partnership with The Tuscarawas County Health Department.
Mental-health professionals say that during this time of year, stress can easily rise — from overbooked calendars, family expectations, financial pressures, or sadness over losses. But there are simple habits you and your family can implement to reduce stress and make way for more calm, joy, and special moments.
Four Simple Habits to Reduce Holiday Stress
1. Focus On What Matters — Let Go of the Rest
Holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
Sometimes we get caught up in demands — spotless homes, Pinterest-perfect meals, elaborate gift-giving.. That pressure can snuff out the joy.
A helpful strategy is to decide what truly matters for your holiday: maybe it’s laughter at the dinner table, quality time with family, or cozy movie nights. Let those be your priority — everything else can fade into the background.
2. Practice Gratitude — Big or Small
When days get hectic, pausing to notice what’s good — even just one little thing — can shift your mood fast. Be intentional with focusing on what you’re grateful for. Gratitude helps boost happiness and lower stress.
Try this: each day, take a second to recognize one thing you’re grateful for. Maybe even share it with those around you to spread that positivity. It could be as simple as “I’m so glad the sun is shining today” — it counts!
3. Give Yourself (and Others) Some Grace
People around you — family, friends, neighbors — are feeling their own kind of holiday pressure. When someone seems grumpy or stressed, try giving them the benefit of the doubt. Maybe they’re rushing, worried, or just running on E. Getting worked up over the things you can’t control will only intensify your own stress. Cutting them some slack and assuming the best can reduce tension in your own mind and keep things peaceful.
4. Step Outside — Even for a Minute
A short walk after a big holiday meal. A quick run-around in the yard before long car rides. Fresh air, movement, or a few deep breaths can help melt away tension.
According to mental-health experts, spending even a small amount of time outdoors is an easy, effective way to calm your mind and lighten your mood. Next time you’re feeling the stress and overwhelm creep in, step outside and take in a few deep breaths of fresh air.
You Are Not Alone- Extra Help Is Always Available
Even the best-laid plans can feel overwhelming. If you, your partner, your teen, or anyone in your family is feeling anxious, lonely, or down and it becomes too much — help is just a phone call away. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you need someone to talk to — whether you’re struggling with grief, stress, or just a bad day — dial or text 988 (or visit 988lifeline.org to chat). No issue is too small. Whether it’s late-night worries, parenting burnout, a rough holiday memory, or just a heavy load — there’s a trained counselor ready to listen and support you.
This season, may your home be filled with warmth- not unrealistic expectations. May your gatherings be about connection, not comparison. May you offer — and accept — kindness and patience.
And above all, may you remember: it’s okay to step back, take a breath, and ask for help if you need it. Because peace and joy aren’t just for the decorations — they’re for your well-being too.