Many people find their anxiety increases in December. Even those who are usually stable can feel overwhelmed.
Common reasons for pre-Christmas anxiety
Social pressure
Parties, gatherings, expectations — even introverts feel it.
Financial stress
The pressure to spend, gift, or provide adds emotional weight.
Family dynamics
Old wounds feel closer. Past roles resurface.
Co-parenting complexities
Schedules, handovers, tension, uncertainty.
Burnout and exhaustion
December is emotionally and physically draining.
Symptoms of festive anxiety
- racing thoughts
- dread
- irritability
- emotional shutdown
- trouble sleeping
- panic sensations
- feeling overwhelmed by decisions
Practical ways to reduce anxiety
- simplify plans
- use grounding techniques
- plan breaks into gatherings
- lower expectations
- practise gentle, realistic self-talk
- set boundaries early
How therapy can help
Therapy offers strategies tailored to your triggers and patterns, helping you:
- regulate your nervous system
- manage overwhelm
- understand emotional roots
- develop coping tools
- build confidence in social or family settings
Single Session Therapy: a one-off support option
If you’re struggling right now, SST is perfect for:
- creating a personalised anxiety plan
- identifying immediate triggers
- grounding techniques
- preparing for specific events
- building emotional resilience
Sometimes one session is enough to regain control.
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