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Your guide to a mentally healthy festive season

Posted 15 Dec 2025

The festive season can be fun and joyful, but it can also feel overwhelming. Busy social calendars, financial pressure or feeling a bit lonely can all creep in at this time of year. With so much happening, it’s easy to forget to look after yourself.

Whether you celebrate during this holiday period or prefer the slower pace of summer, these tips can help you stay connected and mentally healthy throughout December and into the New Year.

Recharging your social battery

Connection matters, but it’s also okay to say “No, thank you” sometimes.
Making room for rest is just as important as celebrating.
Try to tune into what you need—whether that’s time with others, a quiet moment, or a bit of both.

Loneliness is real

For some, the festive season can feel isolating—whether you’re surrounded by people or spending time on your own.
A simple message, phone call or invitation for a walk or coffee with someone you care about can help you feel more connected. Chances are, they’ll appreciate it too.
The Act Belong Commit Activity Finder is a great place to spark ideas. You could:

• Join a local group
• Try a new hobby
• Attend a community event
• Organise a neighbourly get-together or board game catch-up

And if you notice someone in your life who may be doing it tough, a small check-in or friendly gesture can mean more than you realise.

Financial overload

Gift-giving, food and social events can quickly add up.

If you’re managing on a tight budget—or simply don’t have anything spare—you’re not alone. It’s okay to set boundaries that protect your wellbeing.

Simple, low-cost ideas can help ease the load, such as:

• Homemade edible treats
• Heartfelt crafty gifts
• A relaxed get-together where you make gifts together
• Meaningful, sustainable gifts are often more appreciated than anything store-bought.

You might also suggest a Secret Santa with friends or family. One thoughtful (or funny) gift keeps the tradition alive without the cost of buying for everyone. And if gifts aren’t possible this year, that’s completely okay too. Your presence is enough.

Feeling overwhelmed?

It’s completely normal to feel stressed, sad or stretched thin at this time of year. Noticing how you’re feeling is the first step.
If things start to feel like they’re too much, try slowing things down. You might:

• Take a short digital break
• Try some gentle breathing
• Go for a walk or bike ride
• Spend some time in nature
• Get lost in a good book

Taking time for yourself is an important part of supporting your mental health and wellbeing.

Need Support?

If you or someone you know needs support, help is available:

Lifeline – 13 11 14

Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

13YARN – 13 92 76 (for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)

Wherever you are, and whatever this season looks like for you, we hope it offers moments to connect and a little time just for you.