11/18/2025
As we move into Thanksgiving, many people feel pressure to be grateful even while navigating stress, family dynamics, financial strain, or grief. It’s important to remember that gratitude and stress can exist together, and feeling overwhelmed does not mean you’re unappreciative.
You’re allowed to have mixed emotions this time of year. Gratitude doesn’t cancel our stress, and stress doesn’t erase the things that you value. Keeping expectations realistic can help; you don’t have to meet every tradition or manage everyone’s needs for the holiday to feel meaningful. Maintaining basic routines like sleep, meals, and movement can support emotional regulation when schedules feel unpredictable. Taking small purses to breathe or reset can help you stay grounded. And if things start to feel heavier, reaching out for support is both normal and helpful.
Wishing you a safe and grounded holiday season!