The Holidays Are Overwhelming, and That’s Okay

For many families, December is framed as a season of joy: busy calendars, celebrations, and togetherness. But for caregivers and individuals with disabilities, this time of year can feel far more complicated.

Schedules change. Routines loosen or disappear altogether. School breaks, visitors, travel, noise, expectations, and sensory input all stack up quickly. What may seem like temporary disruptions to others can feel like a complete loss of structure for families who rely on predictability and consistency to support regulation and well-being.

If December feels overwhelming, that does not mean you are doing something wrong.

Caregiving does not pause for the holidays. Needs do not become simpler because the calendar says it’s time to celebrate. In fact, the emotional and physical demands of caregiving often increase this time of year while external support, patience from others, and understanding can decrease.

You may find yourself navigating heightened behaviors, emotional dysregulation, or increased anxiety in your member. You may also notice your own bandwidth shrinking as you try to manage expectations, maintain routines, and keep everything afloat. This can lead to guilt, especially when the outside world suggests you should be enjoying every moment.

It is okay if you are not.

It is okay to simplify traditions.
It is okay to opt out of events that feel overwhelming.
It is okay if “getting through December” is your main goal.

Choosing what works best for your family is not a failure. It is an act of care. Support, structure, and regulation still matter during the holidays, even if they look different than usual. So does grace - for yourself and for your member.

If this season feels heavy, know that you are not alone. Overwhelm is not a sign that you are ungrateful or incapable. It is a sign that you are carrying a lot and doing the best you can in a demanding season.