Fast Pace Health Shares Strategies for Coping With Holiday Stress

Financial, family, and social pressures can take a toll—here’s some helpful ways to manage them effectively.

Franklin, TN — December 1, 2025 — As the holiday season approaches, many individuals experience increased stress driven by financial strain, family expectations, and social obligations. Fast Pace Behavioral Health is raising awareness about these challenges and offering practical, evidence-supported strategies to help communities navigate holiday pressures with resilience and confidence.

Research consistently shows that the holidays, while joyous for many, can heighten anxiety and emotional strain. Factors such as gift-giving expenses, complex family dynamics, and crowded social calendars can contribute to feelings of overwhelm. Our behavioral health team wants to emphasize the importance of planning, boundary-setting, financial mindfulness, and self-care to reduce these stressors.

According to mental health professionals at Psychology Today, managing holiday stress begins with understanding triggers and preparing ahead of time. Social anxiety, financial worries, and the expectation for “perfect holidays” commonly drive emotional overload. Simple approaches—such as the following can provide meaningful relief:

• Setting spending limits,
• Practicing grounding techniques,
• Taking breaks during social gatherings,
• Reframing unrealistic expectations
• Leaning on supportive peers
• Reaching out for help when needed

Medical and behavioral health organizations, including Mayo Clinic and the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), also highlight the importance of prioritizing personal well-being, maintaining healthy habits, and connecting with supportive people. They encourage individuals to acknowledge their feelings, communicate openly with family members, and create realistic holiday plans that uphold emotional and financial boundaries.

“Holiday stress is extremely common, and it’s important for people to know that they’re not alone,” said Nikita Duke, VP of Operations, Fast Pace Behavioral Health. “By offering practical, scientifically informed strategies, we aim to help our communities approach the season with more peace, confidence, and balance.”

Fast Pace Behavioral Health encourages individuals to seek support when needed, whether through healthcare providers, counseling services, or community resources. With the right tools and awareness, the holidays can become more manageable—and even more meaningful.

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About Fast Pace Health

Fast Pace Health is a trusted healthcare provider committed to delivering accessible, high-quality medical and behavioral health services across Tennessee, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Indiana, Arkansas, and North Carolina. Guided by an unwavering focus on patient care, the organization continues to broaden its reach, enhance access to services, and create meaningful, lasting impacts in the lives of individuals and families in underserved communities.

Contact:
Christopher Craig
Senior Director of Marketing Strategy
marketing@fastpacehealth.com

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Sources & References:

Psychology Today — Managing Social Anxiety During the Holidays

Psychology Today — When the Holidays Feel More Messy Than Merry

Psychology Today — Conquering Holiday Money Stress

Psychology Today — Tips to Deal with Holiday Money Anxiety

Mayo Clinic — Tips for Taking Control of the Holidays So They Don’t Take Control of You

Headington Institute — Managing Stress During the Holiday Season: A Practical Guide

DBSA — Holiday Stress Toolkit