Christmas burnout is common – here are a few ways to feel better
If Christmas leaves you feeling overwhelmed, consider chatting with a family member or friend. We’re also here 24/7 if you’d like to talk to a counsellor.
This is one of four articles on how to cope with stress at Christmas. The other articles include loneliness and isolation, holiday spending stress and family dynamics.
What contributes to Christmas burnout?
Every year Christmas rolls around, and for many of us, so do the feelings of stress and exhaustion.
Here’s why 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 OK 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”
Remember, these signs don’t mean you’re failing – it’s actually very common.
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 here 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.
"I felt like I’d been believed for the first time... it was really refreshing to have that support from someone, especially an actual professional.
It was nice to finally feel like I wasn’t alone."
- Rachael, Beyond Blue Speaker
When people feel all alone this Christmas, your kindness today means Beyond Blue counsellors will be there 24/7, to listen and support when it matters most.
