A Gentle Reminder for Anyone Struggling This Season <3
The holiday season is often painted as a glittering stretch of joy, twinkling lights, perfect dinners, matching pajamas, endless cheer. At least, that’s the story we’re sold.
But for many people, the reality is… heavier.
And it’s important to say this out loud:
If this time of year feels hard, you’re not broken. You’re human.
The Weight We Don’t Talk About
Stress doesn’t magically disappear because the calendar says we should be merry. In fact, it tends to grow.
For some, it’s financial strain, especially when children are involved. The pressure to “make it magical” can be suffocating when the budget is already tight.
For others, it’s family conflict, the kind that sits under the surface all year and erupts when holiday expectations collide with unhealed wounds.
There’s also the quiet ache of missing someone, especially elders. It seems strange, but many people notice that older loved ones often pass close to the holidays. Maybe it’s coincidence… or maybe it’s simply the sharp contrast between joy and absence that makes that loss feel deeper.
And then there’s the invisible group:
Those who are neurodivergent, masked, overwhelmed, smiling through sensory overload, tradition pressure, and the endless dance of “doing it right.” Masking is exhausting under normal circumstances. During the holidays, it can feel impossible.
If You’re Struggling, You Don’t Have to Pretend
This may go against tradition, but it’s the truth:
You do not have to put on a festive mask for the world.
You don’t owe anyone forced cheer.
You don’t owe anyone elaborate plans.
You don’t owe anyone your energy if your energy is already running low.
If you’re having a hard season, you’re allowed to say something as simple as:
“I’m moving gently this year.”
“I need a quieter holiday.”
“This season is heavier than usual, so I’m taking care of myself.”
You don’t have to offer details.
You don’t have to justify your heart.
If someone truly loves you, they’ll understand.
And if someone doesn’t understand… that is information, too.
Let Someone In, Even Just One Person
There’s an old belief that the holidays are meant for togetherness, but the pressure to “be okay” often isolates the very people struggling the most.
The truth?
You don’t have to tell the whole world.
But letting even one trusted person know what you’re carrying can make the load lighter.
A friend.
A sibling.
A partner.
Someone who sees you, not just the mask you wear.
You deserve that level of care, not because you’re weak, but because you’re worthy.
Your Health Matters More Than the Decorations
The holidays will come and go. The lights will come down. The baubles will go back into their boxes.
But you, your body, your mind, your heart, you’re here long after the wrapping paper is gone.
You matter more than any tradition.
More than any expectation.
More than any picture-perfect moment.
If stepping back protects your peace, your health, your stability…
then stepping back is the bravest thing you can do.
A Final Thought, From Me to You
If this season feels heavier than usual, you’re not alone.
You’re not failing.
You’re not behind.
You’re not letting anyone down by honoring your own limits.
You’re simply human – doing your best in a season that asks a lot.
And this year, maybe the most courageous thing you can do is give yourself permission to rest… and let the holidays be whatever you’re capable of, not whatever you’re pressured to perform.
Move gently, friend.
You deserve a season that doesn’t drain you, even if that season looks quieter than the world expects.