The holiday season can bring joy and cherished moments, but it also heightens feelings of stress, loneliness, and depression for many. In this week’s episode of *More Than a Therapy Couch*, we sit down with Danielle Magna, LPC, ACS, an experienced therapist at Tree of Life Counseling Center. Together, we unpack common holiday stressors such as hosting parties, navigating difficult family dynamics, and the pressures of gift-giving.
Key Topics:
- The impact of holiday expectations on mental health
- Tips for prioritizing self-care during the holidays
- Coping strategies for loneliness, including volunteering and virtual gatherings
- Managing financial stress and gift-giving pressures
- Navigating challenging family dynamics and setting boundaries
Join us as we explore how to cultivate mental well-being during this complex time of year. If you or someone you know is struggling, it may be time to reach out for professional support.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
5:45 Holidays as a Child vs. Holidays as an Adult
7:20 Event Planning & Family Dynamics
14:53 Gift-Giving Expectations
17:44 Body Image & The Holidays
22:40 Practical Therapeutic Tips
30:49 LGBT+ Individuals and Family Dynamics
37:19 Conclusion