When the Holiday Season is Hard: 10 Self-Care Practices for Difficult Times
by: Daniel Jurek
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
The holiday season, especially Christmas, is a time of joy and celebration for many, but for others, it can magnify feelings of grief, loneliness, stress, or sadness. Whether you’re navigating the pain of loss, struggling with strained relationships, or dealing with financial or emotional burdens, know this: you are not alone. God sees your pain, and His love remains constant, even in challenging times.
Taking care of yourself during this season is not selfish, it’s essential. Below are 10 evidence-based self-care practices to help you engage with the season in a healthy way. These practices are rooted in both counseling research and the wisdom of Scripture, offering guidance for your mind, body, and spirit.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
It’s okay to feel what you feel. Denying sadness, anger, or grief can intensify those emotions. Instead, name them and bring them into prayer:
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Journaling or speaking with a trusted friend or counselor can also help you process your emotions.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
The culture around Christmas often pressures us to create “perfect” celebrations. If this feels overwhelming, simplify. Focus on what truly matters—faith, family, and moments of peace. Remember that the first Christmas was simple and humble, yet filled with God’s glory.
“Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” – Proverbs 15:16
3. Prioritize Rest
The holidays can deplete your energy. Make time for rest, both physically and spiritually. Sleep well, take breaks, and reconnect with God through prayer or quiet reflection. Even Jesus rested when He needed to (Mark 6:31), modeling the importance of stepping away to recharge.
4. Stay Connected with Community
Feeling isolated? Reach out to others. Attend Mass, join parish activities, or volunteer. Connection with others can uplift your spirit and remind you of the Body of Christ working in unity.
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” – Matthew 18:20
5. Practice Gratitude
Gratitude can shift your focus from what’s missing to what is present. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can improve mental health and deepen your awareness of God’s blessings.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His steadfast love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1
6. Be Mindful of Your Physical Health
The mind and body are deeply connected. Get outside for a walk, nourish yourself with healthy foods, and avoid overindulgence in sweets or alcohol. Exercise is proven to reduce stress and improve mood.
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit?” – 1 Corinthians 6:19
7. Give Yourself Permission to Say No
You don’t have to attend every gathering or meet every demand. Overcommitting can lead to burnout, so set boundaries with kindness and clarity. Protect your peace.
“Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’” – Matthew 5:37
8. Serve Others in Need
Serving others can be a powerful antidote to sadness or loneliness. Consider helping at a food pantry, visiting someone who is homebound, or sending cards to the sick. Small acts of kindness remind us of Christ’s call to love.
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
9. Lean on Prayer and Scripture
When the season feels heavy, turn to prayer and the Word of God for comfort and guidance. Meditate on verses like Philippians 4:6-7, which remind us of God’s peace, or pray the Rosary to focus on Jesus’ life and Mary’s intercession.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105
10. Seek Professional Support if Needed
Sometimes, the holidays bring up deep pain that requires more than personal effort. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor, priest, or trusted mentor. God often works through others to bring healing.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” – Proverbs 15:22
Closing Encouragement
The holidays may be hard, but remember that the message of Christmas is one of hope: Emmanuel, “God with us,” came to be present in our struggles and to bring us His peace. Take time to care for yourself, lean on your faith, and trust that God’s grace is sufficient, even in difficult seasons.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
“We have been called to heal wounds, to unite what has fallen apart, and to bring home any who have lost their way”.
~ St. Francis of Assisi, Legend of the Three Companions, #58
