For many people, the holidays are portrayed as a time of joy and connection but for those living with mental health challenges, this season can be especially difficult. Research consistently shows that the holidays can worsen mental health symptoms. A NAMI survey found that nearly two-thirds of people with mental illness report the holidays negatively impact their well-being, and more recent data shows that three in five Americans feel their mental health declines during this time of year.
It’s important to remember that mental health conditions don’t pause for the holidays. Depression, anxiety, grief, and substance use concerns often intensify during this season, especially as holiday stress overlaps with the start of winter. For some individuals, this includes Major Depressive Disorder with a seasonal pattern (formerly known as Seasonal Affective Disorder), which is linked to chemical changes in the brain triggered by reduced daylight. Symptoms may include low mood, irritability, sleep disturbances, loss of interest in activities, appetite changes, and feelings of worthlessness.
Beyond clinical depression, many people experience common seasonal stressors such as grief and heightened stress. The holidays can magnify feelings of loss, nostalgia, and unmet expectations, while financial pressure, busy schedules, and complicated family dynamics add additional strain. Moreover, these expectations can create a desire to recapture happier days from their past.
Supporting clients during the holidays starts with realistic expectations and proactive planning. Encouraging healthy habits like consistent sleep, therapy attendance, physical activity, and access to natural light can help stabilize mood. Planning ahead, setting boundaries around time and finances, and giving permission to say “no” are powerful ways to reduce stress. Social connection also matters; helping individuals identify who they can reach out to when feelings of loneliness arise can make a meaningful difference .
Practical tools can further help us support our clients emotional well-being. Creating lists, rehearsing stressful situations ahead of time, and visualizing coping strategies can help people feel more in control. Just as important is knowing when to seek additional help. If symptoms feel overwhelming or unmanageable, connecting with professional resources such as therapy, crisis lines, or community support programs can be particularly helpful this time of year.
Above all, it’s important to remember to support our clients with empathy, compassion, and validation. There is no single ‘correct’ way to experience the holidays. For some, joy may come from adapting traditions or creating new ones; for others, it may mean simplifying the season or focusing inward. By honoring each individual’s experience and prioritizing well-being over expectation, we can help our clients create a holiday season rooted in care, balance, and understanding.