Holiday Stress: Drowning Is Drowning (Yes, Even in a Puddle)
Ah, the holidays.
A time for joy, connection, and… suddenly questioning all of your life choices in the Target parking lot.
Between packed calendars, family dynamics, financial pressure, and the unspoken expectation that everyone should be thrilled all the time, it’s no surprise that many people feel overwhelmed. And yet, so many of us follow that feeling with this thought: "I shouldn't be this stressed. Other people have it worse."houldn’t be this stressed. Other people have it worse.”
Let’s stop that thought right there.
Drowning Is Drowning — No Matter the Size of the Puddle
Stress is not a competition. There are no medals. No winners. No leaderboard.
Someone might be drowning in a deep ocean of grief, loss, or trauma.
Someone else might be drowning in a shallow puddle of holiday stress, family expectations, emotional overload, and trying to do all the things.
Both are still drowning.
Your nervous system doesn’t measure stress by comparison. It responds to what you are experiencing — your capacity, your history, and the support you have (or don’t have) right now.
What Holiday Stress Can Look Like
Holiday stress doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it shows up as:
Anxiety or irritability over small things
Trouble sleeping
Feeling numb or emotionally checked out
Dreading family gatherings
Missing someone who isn’t there anymore
None of this means you’re ungrateful. It means your mental health is asking for attention.
Two Things Can Be True at the Same Time
You can love the holidays and feel overwhelmed.
You can be grateful and exhausted.
You can enjoy one moment and struggle the next.
Mixed emotions are normal — especially during the holiday season.
Boundaries Are Mental Health Care
Yes, boundaries still count during the holidays.
You’re allowed to say no.
You’re allowed to leave early.
You’re allowed to skip traditions that hurt more than they help.
Protecting your peace isn’t selfish — it’s self-care.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Therapy isn’t only for crisis moments. Many people seek therapy during the holidays to manage stress, process grief, navigate family dynamics, and protect their mental health during an already demanding time of year.
At Helping Minds Heal Counseling Center, we offer compassionate, supportive therapy to help you feel grounded — not judged, rushed, or minimized.
Because drowning is drowning. Even if it’s “just” a puddle.
Ready for Support?
If holiday stress is weighing on you, support is available.
Helping Minds Heal Counseling Center is currently accepting clients and works with most major insurance plans.
In-person therapy in Caldwell and Springfield, NJ
Virtual therapy available
Schedule an appointment or learn more at www.hmhcc.care
You don’t have to wait until you’re overwhelmed to ask for help.
Your mental health matters — especially during the holidays.