Managing Stress During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is often filled with warmth, gratitude, and togetherness, but it can also bring stress, anxiety, and emotional strain. From travel logistics and family dynamics to financial pressure and packed schedules, the holiday can challenge even the most resilient among us. At CHCW, we’re highlighting mental wellness strategies to help you navigate Thanksgiving with calm, clarity, and care.

Common Holiday Stressors

Understanding what triggers stress is the first step toward managing it. During Thanksgiving, common sources include:

Overcommitted schedules and social obligations
Family tensions or unresolved conflicts
Travel stress and time constraints
Financial pressure from hosting or gift-giving
Disrupted routines, including sleep, meals, and exercise
Loneliness or grief, especially for those missing loved ones

Here are evidence-based tips to help you manage stress and protect your mental health:

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Emotional Wellness Tips

Acknowledge your feelings: It’s okay to feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed. Naming your emotions helps you process them.

Limit conflict: If family tensions arise, redirect conversations or take space. Focus on shared values and gratitude.

Create calming rituals: Light a candle, play soothing music, or journal your thoughts. These small acts can anchor your day.

Make Mental Health Part of the Celebration

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect. By prioritizing your mental health, you can enjoy the season more fully and support others in doing the same.