The holidays are supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, they can bring a whirlwind of emotions — excitement mixed with exhaustion, joy tangled with grief, and connection shadowed by conflict. In this episode, psychotherapist Dr. Aletha Clark unpacks the reality of holiday stress — why we feel it, what triggers it, and how to navigate it with grace and self-awareness.

We’ll explore:

• The incongruent feelings of joy and sadness during the holidays
• Common causes of holiday stress — from finances to family dynamics
• Practical ways to cope with holiday pressure and expectations
• How to set boundaries that protect your peace
• Self-care strategies that help you stay grounded and intentional

Tune in and learn how to create a holiday season that feels balanced, authentic, and aligned with your emotional well-being.