12 Mental Health Concerns for December

Reasons to Sign Up for Therapy in January 2026

December arrives with the promise of joy, but for many of us, this month brings a different reality. Here are twelve honest reasons people struggle during the holidays—and why reaching out for support in the new year might be exactly what you need.

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1. Emotionally Abusive Relationships
Being expected to celebrate with people who cause you harm and tears creates a double-bind situation that intensifies anxiety.

2. Healing from Narcissistic Abuse
The holiday season’s emphasis on family can be especially painful for those recovering from years spent with narcissistic or sociopathic family members, who left traumatic memories rather than warm fuzzy ones.

3. Healing from Medical Trauma
Expectations of celebrating with perpetrators can be confusing, difficult, and painful.

4. Healing from Emotional Neglect
Family gatherings can be particularly triggering for those who grew up without emotional support.

5. Trying to Heal from Past Relationships While Moving Ahead in a New One
Navigating new partnership dynamics while processing old wounds may mean there’s still a lot to work through.

6. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Shorter days and less sunlight can trigger genuine depression, leaving people feeling depleted just when social expectations are highest. Think crying spells and googling flights to Central America.

7. Alcohol and Substance Use
Holiday parties can mean more alcohol (and drug consumption) than usual, leading to mood swings, sleep disturbances, and challenges with hangovers, brain fog, and mental clarity. If you’re having more than four alcoholic drinks per week, the DSM-V says that’s a problem!

8. Lack of Boundaries Within Families
The expectation to attend multiple gatherings can create intense anxiety, especially when family dynamics are complicated or relationships feel obligatory rather than nourishing or “cup-filling.”

9. Financial Concerns
Wish lists, gift lists, travel expenditures, new health insurance plans on the rise, and January 15th quarterly taxes due around the corner, can create anxiety about making ends meet.

10. Providing as a Divorced Mother
The pressure to create holiday magic (decorating, gift giving, being in a good mood) while managing single-parent finances and possibly navigating co-parenting challenges can feel… overwhelming!

11. Starting a New Business
December brings unique pressures for entrepreneurs, from possible slower sales to the isolation of working long hours while others kick back and celebrate.

12. The Pressures of Graduate School
Final exams, deadlines, and academic performance pressures peak right when all you need is… rest.

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If you’re managing any of these challenges this December, you’re not alone. Your struggles are valid, regardless of what the season is “supposed” to feel like. And if this list resonates with you, consider making that therapy appointment for January—because taking care of your mental health is the best gift you can give yourself.

This is for those of us living real lives—messy, complicated, and still worthy of compassion and support.