Therapy in Great Falls | My Top 3 Unconventional Stress Relievers for the Holiday Season

The holiday season brings joy, connection, and celebration — but it can also bring overwhelm, exhaustion, and pressure. As a therapist in Great Falls, MT, I often see clients struggling with the weight of expectations, family dynamics, financial strain, and the constant hustle that comes with these holiday months.

And by now we know some of those tried-and-true recommendations that may be a little more difficult to institute in the middle of the holiday season. You know, like “eat healthy”, “get plenty of rest”, and “limit time with your insensitive and passive aggressive family member”. IYKYK.

Ready for some fresh ideas that are holiday-season-friendly?!! I have personally tested these three out myself and they are as effective as they are easy to implement. So…what are you waiting for?! Get to reading!

1. I Simplified My Wardrobe

I told you! Unconventional. But there’s something to this, I promise! Decision fatigue is one of the sneakiest contributors to holiday stress. Which toy are you going to buy little Jennifer? What are you bringing to the company potluck? What ugly sweater are you wearing to the Christmas party? The list of decisions is never-ending in this season, so let’s catch a break where we can, alright?

Over a month ago (after noticing anxiety every time I entered my over-stuffed, messy closet) I decided to declutter and reduce my wardrobe by four full Sam’s Club plastic bins (you know the ones). I kept pieces of clothing that were easy to mix and match with one another, were easy to care for (a.k.a. nothing that easily wrinkles if left in the dryer for an, *ahem*, extended period of time), and were, of course, comfortable. Instantly I felt relief in every part of the laundry process (the chore I loathe). I now had less laundry to wash as I found it easier to re-wear certain pieces of clothing. I also avoided throwing my back out as I previously attempted to push hanging clothes further and further down the rack (unsuccessfully), trying to make room for the clean ones. And then, of course, the added bonus of quickly choosing an outfit in the morning: I can now see my clothing options easily, bypass decision fatigue, and be on my way!

The benefits of a capsule wardrobe include:

• Reduce decision-making pressure

• Cut visual clutter

• Reduce laundry

• Minimize anxiety around “what to wear”

As someone who provides counseling in Great Falls, I love recommending this to clients who feel easily overwhelmed. It’s a small shift with a surprisingly big emotional payoff.

2. I Met with a Financial Advisor

Confession: I am 40 years old and I just recently met with a financial advisor for the first time.

Oh yes, my DIY-tendencies go beyond cookie decorating and photography. As a recovering overachiever, I have a lot of practice in doing it all, even when it doesn’t make sense. As much as this reality stresses me out, I’m choosing to let it go with the reminder of “better late than never!”.

This strategy made my short list of “unconventional” stress relievers because it truly eased my mind. I finally allowed myself to trust an expert to assist me with financial decisions (seems to make sense, right?), and now I get to relax knowing that the weight of financial security and decisions associated aren’t fully on my shoulders. *cue a sigh of relief*

Money stress can be a big emotional burden I see as a counselor in Great Falls, MT, and I only wish I had made this appointment sooner. Like 15 years sooner.

The benefits of a financial advisor include:

• Gives you a clear financial plan for your goals.

• Helps you budget, save, invest, and manage debt with confidence.

• Provides objective, emotion-free guidance for big decisions.

• Optimizes your financial strategies for taxes and retirement.

• Builds long-term financial confidence and stability.

This one session can completely change the emotional tone of your holiday season.

3. I Unfollowed Accounts on Socials

Recently I had to ask myself: “Why do I open my social media apps?” Well, I love learning - about everything from psychology to new recipes, to how to beautifully style a console table. I love reading powerful quotes that I can pass along to my clients that instill hope, grace, and determination. I love laughing at reels validating the struggles and craziness of being a parent and raising kids. I love seeing my friends and family and the snapshots of their lives. But political opinions (both sides) and the associated anger and judgement? Those just didn’t make the cut.

And the best part about this? I have control over who and what I follow. And if it’s not serving me in a positive way? I’m just a little click away from building a more positive environment for myself.

Maybe your version of “social sadness” are the accounts that lead you to question your worth, or leave you spiraling in the comparison game. Maybe it looks more like those retailers or influencers encouraging you to buy the things you don’t need. Or maybe social media as a whole has created more harm than good: on your time, your self-worth, and/or your pocketbook.

Here is your permission slip to protect your peace by unfollowing or muting any account that triggers:

• Self-doubt

• Anxiety

• Overwhelm

• Shame

• “Not enough” energy

This act is simple but incredibly powerful. Many of the clients who come to me for counseling in Great Falls notice a significant decrease in stress when they curate their digital environment.

Final Thoughts

Facts: the holidays can be stressful. And if the holidays feel heavy, stressful, or emotionally complicated, you’re not failing — you’re human. AND…if you are looking for some new ideas to reduce stress that don’t affect your anti-gym streak you got goin’ on…I encourage you to try these unconventional ones above.

As a therapist in Great Falls, MT, I support individuals, couples, and families in creating more intentional and emotionally grounded lives. If you’re seeking support during the holiday season or beyond, working with a Montana therapist can help you navigate stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges with more clarity and confidence.

Whether you need a space to process overwhelm, tools to manage holiday stress, or long-term counseling in Great Falls, you deserve support that feels warm, grounded, and effective.