Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it can feel quite the opposite—stressful, lonely, or even overwhelming. According to the National Institute of Health, this season can exacerbate mental health challenges, especially for those already struggling.

To help navigate the festive pressures, we revisit a special episode of The Happier Life Project featuring Dr Claire Plumbly, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Good Therapy Ltd, a psychological therapy centre based online and in Taunton, Somerset. Specializing in anxiety, trauma, and burnout, Dr Claire is also the author of 'Burnout: How to Manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You,' available in the UK now and launching in the USA as 'The Trauma of Burnout on January 23, 2025.'

This episode is a repeat of The Happier Life Project’s ‘Ask The Expert’ series, where listeners and My Possible Self app users send in their questions for host Gabby to pose to a mental health or wellness professional. Dr Claire was on hand to offer advice on all things Christmas-related, packed with practical tips and compassionate advice, this episode was so impactful we felt it deserved to be shared again. 

Dr Claire offers invaluable advice on implementing financial boundaries to avoid overspending, coping with unpredictable or excessively drinking family members, and honouring lost loved ones while managing grief during the holidays. She also shares guidance on easing social anxiety, addressing fears around food or overeating, and tackling the stress of feeling obligated to be happy and jolly throughout the season.

Whether you missed it the first time or need a refresher, it’s a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the challenges of the Christmas season with greater ease and resilience.