Staying Connected When the Holidays Feel Hard

The Holidays Aren’t Always Merry for Everyone

The holiday season often carries a mix of excitement and pressure:   parties, family gatherings, travel, and expectations for joy. Yet, for many individuals, couples, and families, this time of year also brings reminders of loss, loneliness, or strained relationships.

It’s okay if the holidays feel hard. Emotional disconnection is common when stress builds, and acknowledging this truth is the first step toward healing it.

Why Stress Pulls Us Apart

When we’re overwhelmed, our nervous systems move into protection mode. Instead of reaching out, we retreat, emotionally or physically. You might notice shorter tempers, increased conflict, or more silence between you and your partner.

The Gottman Method teaches that small moments of turning toward each other during stress make a big difference. Instead of trying to “fix” everything, try simple bids for connection:

• A gentle touch on the shoulder

• Saying “I missed you today”

• Taking a deep breath together before guests arrive

These small gestures remind your partner: We’re in this together.

Making Space for Real Feelings

You don’t have to feel joyful 24/7. In fact, pretending to be fine can create more distance. Allowing space for honest emotions like sadness, overwhelm, even frustration — helps you stay emotionally attuned.
Try asking:

“What feels hardest for you this week?”
“How can I support you today?”

Listening without fixing builds trust and strengthens connection.

When You Need a Little Extra Support

If you or your partner feel stuck in conflict or disconnected during the holidays, therapy can help you find your way back to each other. At The Lake Erie Center, we help couples and families navigate emotional stress with compassion and evidence-based tools.

🕯️ Next week, we’ll explore how to bring back joy through simple rituals that strengthen your bond, even when life feels busy.

If this season feels heavy, you don’t have to carry it alone. Schedule a session to reconnect with what truly matters , each other.