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Journaling Holiday Stress When Everything Feels Like Too Much

The holidays are often described as the “most wonderful time of the year.” But for many people, they can also be one of the most emotionally complicated seasons. Between family expectations, financial pressure, crowded schedules, and the memories that come with this time of year, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.


If you’ve noticed yourself feeling anxious, on edge, or emotionally drained during the holidays, journaling can help you process what’s happening inside your mind before it starts to spill over. Writing gives your feelings somewhere to go. It’s a quiet space where you can slow down, reflect, and make sense of the chaos around you.


At Gabby Cares, we often encourage journaling as a simple but powerful self-care tool. You don’t have to be a writer. You don’t even have to know what to say. You just need to show up with honesty.



Why Journaling Works During the Holidays


When life feels like it’s moving too fast, journaling helps you pause. It creates distance between your emotions and your reactions, giving you the chance to see what’s really bothering you.


Writing helps you:

  • Recognize stress before it becomes burnout

  • Process family dynamics and emotional triggers

  • Manage guilt or grief that surfaces during the holidays

  • Reconnect with what actually matters to you


How to Journal Holiday Stress


You don’t need a fancy notebook or a long routine. Start with ten minutes and a question that helps you unpack what’s happening beneath the surface.


Here are a few prompts that might help:

  • What’s been draining my energy lately?

  • Which parts of the holiday season feel heavy or complicated for me?

  • What am I pretending to be okay with, but really need to step back from?

  • What do I need more of this week: rest, support, or space?

  • Who or what actually brings me comfort right now?


If your mind feels crowded, try a “brain dump.” Write everything that’s been sitting in your head; no grammar, no filter, no judgment. Get it all out, then take a breath. Often, you’ll notice that just naming your thoughts can make them easier to manage.


You are allowed to feel stressed during the holidays. You are allowed to feel mixed emotions about family, love, loss, and change. Journaling isn’t about forcing gratitude or pretending to be happy, but staying honest and grounded when everything else feels loud.


And if you find that writing brings up emotions that feel too heavy to handle alone, that’s a sign you may need a little extra support. Therapy can help you work through those deeper feelings in a safe, understanding space. At Gabby Cares of South Florida, we understand how overwhelming this season can be. If you’re ready to talk, reflect, or simply have a place to unload some of what you’ve been carrying, our therapy sessions are open and affordable.


Our compassionate intern therapists are trained and supervised by licensed clinicians to provide real, empathetic care, no judgment, just understanding.


You don’t have to go through the holidays pretending to be fine.


Support is available.

📞 Call: 786-490-5988 

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