It's Okay to Not Feel Festive This December
As we step into December, society tells us it's a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. The world around us is filled with twinkling lights, cheerful music, and messages of peace and goodwill. We're encouraged to connect with family and friends, share in the holiday cheer, and feel gratitude for all the good things in our lives. But for many, December can feel like a heavy reminder that things aren’t always that simple.
It's okay to not feel festive. In fact, it’s more than okay. It’s important to recognise that this time of year can be incredibly overwhelming for some of us. While everyone else seems to be excitedly making plans and feeling positive, you may find yourself struggling to match that energy. It’s hard when you feel out of sync with the world around you, when it seems like everyone else is in the holiday spirit and you just can’t summon the same feelings.
The pressure to feel happy and connected can sometimes be suffocating. The well-meaning advice to "stay positive" or "just enjoy the holidays" may only make things worse when you're feeling down. It’s important to acknowledge that not everyone experiences this time of year in the same way, and that's okay. Your feelings are valid, even if they don't align with societal expectations.
For some, December can be a painful reminder of loss, loneliness, or unmet expectations. The idea that this is the "most wonderful time of the year" can feel like a cruel joke when you're struggling internally. You might be surrounded by people, but still feel completely isolated in your emotions. That sense of loneliness can sting, especially when it feels like everyone around you is happily connecting with others.
When people say "you're not alone," it can feel like a platitude. Sometimes, in the midst of a crowd, you may feel like no one truly understands your struggle. And that’s okay, too. You don’t need to justify your feelings to anyone. Not everyone will understand your emotional landscape, and that’s not a reflection of your worth or how "normal" your feelings are. Some people may find it hard to comprehend what you're going through because they haven't experienced it themselves. But that doesn't invalidate your emotions or make them any less real.
It’s important to give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you're feeling, even if it’s not what others expect of you. You don't have to force yourself to feel cheerful just because it's December. It’s okay to embrace the season in your own way, or even to take a step back and focus on what feels right for you. Whether it’s a quiet evening alone, some space to reflect, or simply acknowledging that the holidays aren't always magical for everyone, what matters is honouring your emotions, no matter how complex they may be.
If you're struggling during this time, remember: it's okay to not be okay. Take care of yourself, even if that means stepping away from the holiday hype. You are not alone in your experience, even if it may feel that way sometimes. Your feelings matter, and they are worth acknowledging.
If you need anything please see a list of resources that are available — http://www.wyeside.co.uk/mental-health/resources