Navigating Thanksgiving Stress: How Therapy Can Help You Stay Grounded This Holiday Season

For many, Thanksgiving is a time for connection, gratitude, and good food—but it can also bring pressure, family dynamics, financial strain, and emotional overwhelm. The expectations of hosting, traveling, or simply “being okay” can make this season feel more stressful than joyful.

At Seratona Psychotherapy Collective, we see this every year. The holidays have a way of bringing unresolved emotions to the surface, highlighting relationship challenges, and stretching our capacity to cope. Therapy provides a supportive space to slow down, unpack these feelings, and develop strategies to move through the season with more ease and intention.

Whether you’re navigating complicated family relationships, grief, burnout, or anxiety around gatherings, having a therapist in your corner can help you set boundaries, stay grounded, and reconnect to what truly matters.

Three Tips to Reduce Holiday Stress & Anxiety

1. Set Boundaries Before You Need Them

Family gatherings can activate old roles and patterns. Before heading into the holiday weekend, identify what you’re comfortable with—time limits, topics you won’t engage in, or people you need space from. Communicate your limits clearly and kindly. Boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re tools for emotional safety.

2. Create a “Pause Plan”

Stress happens fast. A pause plan helps you slow your body before your mind spirals. Try:

• Stepping outside for two minutes of fresh air

• 4-7-8 breathing

• A grounding technique like noticing five things you can see

These quick resets regulate your nervous system and help you stay present.

3. Redefine What the Holiday Should Look Like

Many people feel anxious because they’re trying to meet family expectations, cultural norms, or social media ideals. Give yourself permission to create a Thanksgiving that feels authentic to you. Smaller gatherings, simpler meals, or a focus on rest instead of obligation are all valid.

If you’re finding the holidays overwhelming, you don’t have to manage it alone. Our therapists at Seratona specialize in supporting individuals through anxiety, stress, and family dynamics—especially during challenging seasons.

Reach out anytime to schedule a session and give yourself the support you deserve this holiday season.

Seratona Psychotherapy Collective
Where your well-being comes first.