December Holidays and Mental Health: Finding Joy and Setting Intentions for the New Year

December Holidays and Mental Health: Finding Joy and Setting Intentions for the New Year

The December holidays are filled with sparkling lights, warm gatherings, and seasonal traditions, but they can also bring stress, overwhelm, or feelings of loneliness. At Cedar Tree Counseling, we believe this season can also be an opportunity to reflect on the past year, care for your mental health, and prepare for a brighter future.

Here’s how to embrace the holidays while creating a foundation for a mentally healthy and intentional new year.

1. Honor Your Emotional Landscape

Unlike Thanksgiving’s focus on gratitude, the December season often comes with complex layers of emotions. There’s the joy of reconnecting with loved ones, but also the sadness of those who may not be there, or the pressure of creating a “perfect holiday.”

Let yourself feel those emotions without judgment. For some, journaling or talking with a trusted therapist can provide clarity and relief. Acknowledging emotions without suppression can reduce stress and improve mental clarity (American Psychological Association, n.d.).

2. Manage Holiday Expectations

In the whirlwind of December festivities, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Social events, gift-giving, and travel can feel like an endless checklist. Instead, prioritize experiences and traditions that bring you joy and let go of unnecessary obligations.

Create a list of what’s most meaningful to you this holiday season and say “no” to commitments that don’t align. Research suggests setting realistic expectations can significantly lower stress and anxiety (National Alliance on Mental Illness [NAMI], 2021).

3. Plan for Self-Care Amid Holiday Chaos

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can lead to burnout if we’re not careful. Prioritize self-care by scheduling downtime, sticking to healthy routines, and saying no to activities that deplete your energy. Remember, it’s okay to take a break from the festivities.

Ideas for December Self-Care:

• Spend an evening reading by the fire.
• Take a mindful walk to enjoy holiday decorations.
• Practice gratitude journaling each morning.

Maintaining self-care routines during stressful times has been shown to improve both mental and physical health (Harvard Health, 2019).

4. Reflect on the Past Year

The end of the year is a natural time to reflect. Instead of focusing only on accomplishments, consider the personal growth you’ve achieved and the lessons you’ve learned. What made you proud? What could you let go of as you move into the new year?

Reflection helps to build self-awareness and provides a foundation for personal growth (Mental Health Foundation, 2020).

5. Set Intentions for the Year Ahead

December is a perfect time to begin setting goals for the new year. Unlike Thanksgiving’s focus on gratitude, this is about looking forward with intention and planning practical steps toward your aspirations.

Goal-Setting Tips:

• Align with Your Values: What matters most to you? Let your goals reflect those priorities.
• Start Small: Break larger goals into manageable steps to avoid overwhelm.
• Focus on Mental Health: Consider resolutions like scheduling regular therapy sessions, practicing mindfulness, or improving work-life balance.

Example Intentions:

• Practice mindfulness 10 minutes a day for the first month of the year.
• Dedicate time weekly to a hobby or passion project.
• Strengthen personal connections by scheduling regular meetups with loved ones.

Breaking goals into smaller, measurable steps increases the likelihood of success (American Psychological Association, n.d.).

6. Lean Into Connection or Find Your Community

While Thanksgiving often emphasizes gathering with family, the December season offers opportunities to find or build new connections. Volunteer, join a local event, or even reach out to someone you’ve lost touch with.

For those feeling isolated, online or in-person support groups can provide a sense of belonging and comfort. Social connections are vital for reducing loneliness and improving overall well-being (Harvard Health, 2022).

7. Celebrate Small Wins Along the Way

Goals and personal growth don’t happen overnight. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Acknowledging these steps can keep you motivated as you move through the holiday season and into the new year.

8. Seek Professional Support When Needed

The holidays can be overwhelming, and starting a new year might feel daunting. If you find yourself struggling, Cedar Tree Counseling is here to help. We provide a safe space to work through challenges and set intentions for a healthier, happier future.

Looking Ahead to a Peaceful Year
The December holidays mark both an end and a beginning—a time to reflect on where you’ve been and envision where you’re going. Prioritize your mental health, embrace meaningful traditions, and set yourself up for success in the year ahead.

At Cedar Tree Counseling, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need help managing holiday stress or setting goals for the new year, our compassionate team is just a call away.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start building a path toward mental wellness in 2025.

References

• American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Managing holiday stress. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org
• Harvard Health. (2019). The connection between mind and body. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu
• Mental Health Foundation. (2020). Reflecting on the year. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2021). Holiday mental health guide. Retrieved from https://nami.org
• Harvard Health. (2022). How relationships affect mental health. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu

Resources for Further Reading:

• Mental Health Foundation
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• American Psychological Association (APA)

Wishing you a season of peace, joy, and growth from everyone at Cedar Tree Counseling.