"Navigating the Yuletide Season 2025: A few tips to sustain your well-being", by Dr. Kirk Christie, Consultant Psychiatrist

A Few Practical Tips to Navigate the Holiday Season 2025:

The holiday season can be joyful, exciting, and meaningful, but it can also feel busy and overwhelming. Navigating it well starts with being intentional about how you spend your time, money, and energy. One helpful step is choosing your social events wisely. Decide early which gatherings you will attend, and remember that you do not need to say yes to every invitation. Overcommitting can lead to unnecessary stress and fatigue, so it is perfectly acceptable to prioritize rest and balance for yourself and your loved ones.

Planning your spending is another important way to reduce holiday stress. Creating a shopping budget and a clear list helps you stay accountable and avoid impulsive purchases you may regret in the new year. Try to pay essential expenses first, such as savings, rent or mortgage, car or personal loans, utilities, groceries, fuel, pet care, and medical costs. When your financial priorities are clear, it becomes easier to enjoy the season without anxiety about overspending.

Alcohol is often part of holiday celebrations, but drinking responsibly is key to staying safe and well. If you choose to drink, set a personal limit to avoid negative consequences such as poor judgment, hangovers, alcohol poisoning, or blackout episodes. Alcohol is a depressant, and heavy or frequent use can worsen low mood and contribute to depression. For personal safety, never leave drinks unattended, avoid accepting drinks from strangers, and always have a designated driver if carpooling. Drinking and driving puts lives at risk and should always be avoided.

Maintaining a healthy daily routine during the holidays can provide stability during an otherwise hectic time. Aim to keep regular sleep and wake times, eat balanced meals throughout the day, and enjoy holiday treats in moderation. Be mindful of excessive sugar, sweetened beverages, desserts, and caffeine. Continuing a regular exercise routine such as walking, light aerobics, or gym activities can boost both mood and energy levels. Exercising with a friend can increase motivation and consistency. Equally important is scheduling personal “me-time” for rest, relaxation, meditation, or quiet reflection.

It is also important to acknowledge that the holiday season can affect people differently. While it is a joyful time for some, others may experience grief, loss, financial strain, relationship changes, or memories of past trauma. For some individuals, especially those living in areas with limited sunlight, the winter months may trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as winter depression. Symptoms can include persistent sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, and increased appetite leading to weight gain. If feelings of sadness or depression persist for several days in a row, it is important to speak with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, mentor, spiritual adviser, or primary doctor.

Clinical depression should never be dismissed. Warning signs may include a persistently low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, feelings of guilt or hopelessness, physical complaints such as headaches or body pains, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing worsening symptoms or suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately by contacting a doctor or visiting the nearest emergency department. Help is available, and no one should suffer in silence.

As the season comes to an end, take time to reflect and set realistic goals for the year ahead (2026). Focus on achievable steps rather than perfection, and allow yourself grace as you move forward. Small, consistent efforts can lead to meaningful growth and well-being in the year to come.

If you have any questions or additional enquiries do not hesitate to contact me at your convenience at info@kirkchristie.com