As December arrives and the days grow shorter, many of us begin to feel the quiet weight of winter—not just in our bodies, but in our hearts. The Christmas season is often portrayed as a time of joy, warmth, and celebration. Yet for many, it can also bring feelings of loneliness, grief, stress, and anxiety.

Whether you find deep spiritual meaning in this season or are simply trying to make it through, it’s important to remember that your mental and emotional well-being matters. The holidays can stir up memories of loved ones lost, financial pressures, or the ache of isolation. But they can also be a time of healing, connection, and hope.

Mental Health Tips For The Season

• Stay connected. Isolation can deepen sadness. Even a short phone call, a coffee date, or a walk with a friend can lift your spirits. Don’t underestimate the power of human connection.
• Honor your emotions. You don’t have to feel merry and bright all the time. It’s okay to feel grief, stress, or fatigue. Give yourself permission to feel what you feel without judgment.
• Limit the pressure. The holidays can come with a long list of expectations—decorating, baking, shopping, hosting. You don’t have to do it all. Let go of perfection and embrace simplicity.
• Seek help if needed. Talking to a counselor, pastor, or trusted friend is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to carry everything alone.

A Simple Challenge For You This Month

Choose one person to encourage. It could be someone you know is struggling, or someone who simply comes to mind. Send a note, make a call, or offer a prayer. Your kindness may be the light someone needs this season—and it might just brighten your own heart too.

You’re Not Alone

If you would like to talk more about mental health or need support, please reach out to Lutheran Family Service by calling (515) 573-3138 or visiting lutheranfamilyservice.org. We’re here to walk with you, wherever you are on your journey.

Rita sees clients at Lutheran Family Service’s Fort Dodge and Carroll, Iowa offices and throughout the state of Iowa via telehealth.

If you or someone you know is interested in premarital counseling or in need of Christ-centered mental health or marriage counseling, refer to or contact us today.

• Rita Burley, LISW
• Call: 563-359-0696
• Email: [email protected]
• Web Form: http://lutheranfamilyservice.org/contact/

Not located Fort Dodge or Carroll, Iowa? Visit our website to see if one of our other locations is near you, or, if telehealth/distance counseling is an option at: lutheranfamilyservice.org/mental-health-counseling.

Lutheran Family Service walks with those experiencing difficult times through mental health counseling, marriage counseling, crisis pregnancy counseling, and adoption services.