What contributes to Christmas burnout?
Every year Christmas rolls around, and for many so does the stress and exhaustion that comes with it.
Here’s how burnout can show up:
- Overcommitment: too many events, too little time
- Family tension: complicated relationships or expectations
- Financial strain: gifts, travel, meals, hosting costs
- Social comparison: chasing Instagram-perfect moments
End-of-year deadlines: work projects/school events piling up
Signs you might be experiencing Christmas burnout
Feeling stretched thin doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. Lots of us feel this way, and it’s okay if you do too.
What contributes to Christmas burnout?
Constant fatigue
- Irritability or feeling snappy
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling like you “just want the Christmas holidays to be over”
Practical tips if you’re feeling overwhelmed
Burnout feels different to different people, and it’s not always an obvious feeling.
Ideas that can help manage Christmas burnout:
Simplifying plans: it’s okay to scale back
Setting boundaries: saying “no” is a form of self-care
Breaking tasks down: spread shopping and prep over weeks
Budgeting realistically: Kiris Kringle, homemade gifts, or gift-free agreements
Taking micro-breaks: a walk, a quiet coffee, or a few deep breaths
Limiting social media: avoid comparing your experiences with others
Help us be there for someone feeling alone this Christmas
When someone who is feeling desperately alone, anxious, depressed or overwhelmed decides to reach out to Beyond Blue for help, we need to be here for them.
Every donation helps keep Beyond Blue’s support services available 24/7, every day of the year.
