Holding On Through the Holidays
- Alexis Harper
- Dec 4, 2025
- 3 min read
The holiday season has long been framed as a period of joy, celebration, and renewal. Yet for many Americans and particularly for many Houstonians, the end of the year brings a significant rise in emotional, financial, and psychological strain. In 2025, those pressures have only become more pronounced. From higher holiday spending expectations to increasing mental health concerns, the realities of this season require a more honest, compassionate, and informed conversation.
The Emotional Landscape of the Holiday Season
According to a 2025 poll from the American Psychiatric Association (APA), 41% of U.S. adults reported anticipating more holiday-related stress this year than last, an increase from 28% in 2024. Mental health organizations emphasize that the holidays do not erase burdens; they intensify them. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has reported that 64% of individuals living with mental illness experience worsening symptoms during the holidays.
The Psychology of Holiday Shopping Stress in 2025
Holiday shopping pressure remains one of the most significant contributors to seasonal anxiety. A 2025 NerdWallet report found that the average American planning to buy gifts expected to spend $1,107, over $180 more than the previous year. The American Heart Association noted that holiday shopping can trigger heightened nervous system responses, stating:
“Holiday shopping doesn’t have to be stressful, but if fulfilling your list feels overwhelming, recognizing your nervous system’s reaction is the first step toward a healthier, happier holiday.”
Permission to Slow Down and Redefine the Holidays
Idealized expectations: perfect gatherings, perfect gifts, perfect emotions, can fuel anxiety, exhaustion, and comparison. Psychologists stress the importance of setting realistic expectations, allowing traditions to evolve, prioritizing rest, protecting boundaries, and being transparent about financial and emotional limitations. Research from the American Psychological Association indicates that individuals who intentionally prioritize emotional well-being during the holidays often experience more meaningful and less stressful seasons.
Words of Encouragement from TRV
At The Rooftop Vibe, we believe that community encompasses every aspect of human experience, beyond the carefully curated moments. If this holiday season feels particularly burdensome, we want to remind you that your holiday budget or gift list does not determine your worth. You are entitled to rest, prioritize your well-being, and create a holiday experience that aligns with your authentic self. Remember, you deserve compassion, grace, and support, and you are not alone in experiencing these feelings.
Houston-Area Resources for Mental Health and Holiday Support
These services are active, reputable, and available throughout the holiday season.
Mental Health & Crisis Support
· Houston Crisis Line (24/7): 713-970-7000
· 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat (24/7)
· Crisis Intervention Houston (24/7): 832-416-1177
Low-Cost / Sliding-Scale Mental Health Care
· The Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD – theharriscenter.org
· Legacy Community Health – legacycommunityhealth.org
· The Council on Recovery – councilonrecovery.org
· University of Houston PRSC – uh.edu/class/psychology/clinic
Food Assistance & Holiday Essentials
· Houston Food Bank – houstonfoodbank.org
· Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston – catholiccharities.org
· Target Hunger – targethunger.org
· Brighter Bites – brighterbites.org
· BakerRipley – bakerripley.org
Toy Drives & Holiday Support for Families
· HFD Operation Stocking Stuffer – hfdtoydrive.org
· Toys for Tots: Greater Houston Area – toysfortots.org
· The Salvation Army Angel Tree – salvationarmyhouston.org
· BEAR: A Resource for CPS Kids – bearesourcehouston.org
· YMCA of Greater Houston – ymcahouston.org
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