Hi there! It's Molly here, and I know Christmas can be a bit of a tricky time for many of us in the neurodivergent community. The holiday season is supposed to be full of joy, love, and celebration, but sometimes it can feel more like a whirlwind of stress and overwhelm. There are expectations from family, friends, and even colleagues—things we're "supposed" to do, from attending big gatherings to buying the perfect gifts. If that's something you struggle with, you're definitely not alone.

For many of us, the pressure to "perform" during Christmas can be intense. Whether it's socialising with relatives we don't see often (and those we do!!), trying to keep up with the noise and chaos, or handling all the bright lights and Christmas music, the festive season can feel overwhelming. And let's be real, sometimes the expectations can make us feel like we're failing at Christmas even before it starts. The good news? There are simple ways to make it a bit easier on yourself so that you can enjoy the parts that matter without feeling overloaded.

 Start with Boundaries

One of the best things you can do before the holiday season kicks off is set some boundaries. It's totally okay to say no to things that make you uncomfortable. Maybe big family dinners with lots of noise aren't your thing, or perhaps you struggle with spending all day socialising. That's okay! Let people know ahead of time what you're comfortable with. You can offer alternatives, like spending part of the day together or organising a quieter get-together in a setting that works better for you.

Being upfront about your needs can save a lot of stress later on. If you need a quiet space to recharge during the day, let people know that you might need to step away for a bit. Or if back-to-back social events feel too much, try spacing them out. You're not being difficult—you're just looking after yourself, and that's really important!

 Simplify Gift-Giving

Christmas often comes with the pressure to buy perfect gifts, which can be tough on both our wallets and our brains. The good news is that you don't need to overthink it! One simple way to make gift-giving less stressful is to set a budget and stick to it. You can also simplify your list by focusing on meaningful, thoughtful gifts rather than trying to impress everyone with expensive or complicated ones. Handmade gifts like food or crafts, can be a lovely, personal way to show you care without breaking the bank.

Another idea is to suggest a "Secret Santa" arrangement with your family or friends, where each person only buys a gift for one other person, within an affordable spending limit. That way, you're not spending all your time and money stressing about presents for everyone. Plus, it's a fun way to keep things simple!

 Manage Sensory Overload

The Christmas season is often full of bright lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces—things that can easily lead to sensory overload for many of us. One way to handle this is by creating our own little "escape plan." If you're going to a big family event or work party, make sure you know where you can take a break if things get too overwhelming. It might be as simple as stepping outside for some fresh air or finding a quiet room to sit in for a few minutes.

If you're hosting or decorating your own space, try sticking with decorations and lighting that make you feel comfortable. Soft lighting, familiar scents, and calming decorations can help create a more peaceful environment, even during the holiday chaos. Or easier still… no decorations, just enjoy the occasion!

 Take Breaks and Rest

I find the rush of Christmas exhausting. And if you're like me,  don't forget to schedule some downtime for yourself. You don't have to attend every event, and it's okay to step away from everything when you need a break. Plan moments of calm throughout your day—whether it's a quiet cup of tea, a walk outside, or just chilling in your favourite spot. Rest and wellbeing is just as important as joining in with everyone.

 Start Planning Now

The best advice I can give? Start planning now. Christmas doesn't have to be a mad rush if you spread things out and get organised early. Write down your to-do list, and keep it manageable. Think about what you actually want to do this Christmas and what you can skip. That way, when the festive season arrives, you'll feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Let's make this Christmas the best one yet—on your terms!
What do you think? Do you have any tips or experiences to share? Pop them in the comments below, and let's help each other through the "festive" season!