Content provided by the Health & Wellness Team at GBS Benefits
While this time of year is often portrayed as cheerful and magical, many people quietly carry grief, loneliness, anxiety, or stress through the holiday months. If you’re navigating a difficult season, know you’re not alone and your experience is valid. Continue reading for suggestions that might help you through the holiday hustle.
If You’re Grieving
Loss tends to echo louder during the holidays. Whether it’s the absence of a loved one, a relationship that changed, or a season of life that’s passed, grief has no timeline.
Try this:
- Light a candle in their honor or create a quiet ritual to remember.
- Say their name. Share a memory. Let the tears come.
- Don’t force “cheer.” Your healing matters more than anyone’s expectations.
If You’re Feeling Lonely
Being surrounded by people isn’t the same as feeling connected. If you’re missing connection, you’re not weak.
Try this:
- Reach out. Send a “thinking of you” message to someone you trust.
- Volunteer. Giving support can ease your own isolation.
- Connect with others. Join a support group or hobby circle.
- Name the feeling: “I feel lonely right now.” Labeling helps reduce shame.
If You’re Overwhelmed or Anxious
Too much noise, pressure, and performance can leave you feeling drained.
Try this:
- Step outside. Get fresh air or take a grounding walk.
- Take things off your plate. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.
- Breathe: Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4. Repeat 3x.
- Text someone: “I’m having a tough time. Can we talk?”
If You’re Just Not Feeling It
You don’t owe anyone a festive mood. Protecting your peace is more important than pretending.
Try this:
- Give yourself permission to opt out—or to create your own kind of quiet holiday.
- Redefine the season: Maybe it’s about reflection, rest, or simplicity.
- Set boundaries with grace: “I love you, but I need to do things differently this year.”
If You’re Struggling, Reach Out
You are not a burden, and you are not alone. Here are some free, confidential support resources.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7): Call or text 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI or nami.org/help
- Postpartum Support International (for new parents): Call or text 1-800-944-4773
Supporting Someone Who’s Struggling
As you move through the season, you may also notice a friend, partner, family member, or coworker having a hard time. You don’t have to fix their situation to make an impact. Sometimes the most meaningful support comes from simply showing up with patience and care.
Check in with intention. A quiet, thoughtful message can remind someone they matter.
Offer practical, low-pressure support. People often don’t know what to ask for or feel guilty asking. Simple options help, such as inviting them to join you on a walk or offering to run an errand for them.
Small actions matter. A short visit, a quiet cup of coffee, or even sitting together in silence can be grounding. Your steady and genuine presence is often the most comforting thing you can give.
This season can hold both light and heaviness, and whatever you’re feeling is valid. Whether you’re working through your own challenges or walking alongside someone who is, small moments of care and connection can make a difference. Move at the pace that feels right for you and offer yourself the same grace you extend to others. If the days feel especially heavy, the resources listed above are available whenever you need support.
