Tackling Christmas angst

by Metropol | December 10, 2025 8:33 am

From comparing ourselves to the carefully curated Christmas perfection of Instagram influencers to navigating the extra financial pressures of the festive season, this time of year can be a stress minefield.

Festive fretting has become an epidemic. While the Christmas and New Year break can be a wonderful time of connection and celebration, it also comes with increased stresses and overwhelm. In the worst instances, this leads to a spike in family and intimate-partner violence.

Anxiety New Zealand encourages Kiwis to prioritise wellbeing for yourself and your whānau with these tips:

Set realistic expectations: It’s okay to say no, set boundaries, and focus on what matters most to you. Let go of the pressure to make everything perfect – connection is more important than perfection.

Take breaks and prioritise rest: The chaos of Christmas can leave you drained. Make time for mini breaks whether it’s a walk outside, a quiet cup of tea, or a few moments of mindfulness (avoid falling into the pit of doomscrolling).

Maintain healthy habits: Amid holiday treats and celebrations, maintain regular healthy routines like nutritious meals, staying hydrated, consistent sleep patterns, and moving after meals, to support your wellbeing.

Reach out for support: If the holiday season feels overwhelming, connect with trusted friends, whānau, or support services like Anxiety NZ’s 0800 ANXIETY helpline, which is available 24/7 throughout the holidays on 0800 269 438.

Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/tackling-christmas-angst/

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