Self-Care During the Holidays: A Guide for Postpartum Families

The holiday season is often associated with joy, connection, and celebration, but for postpartum families, it can also bring stress, exhaustion, and a sense of overwhelm. Juggling a newborn’s needs, your own recovery, and the pressures of holiday traditions can feel daunting. Prioritizing self-care during this time is essential—not just for surviving the season, but for truly enjoying it in your own way.

Here are some tips for how postpartum families can navigate the holidays:

1. Embrace Simplicity

The pressure to maintain every holiday tradition can be overwhelming. Postpartum life is the perfect time to simplify. Focus on a few meaningful activities rather than trying to do everything. This might mean skipping elaborate meals in favor of a cozy potluck or foregoing long travels for virtual celebrations. Remember: the holidays can still be magical even when scaled back.

2. Communicate Boundaries

Family and friends may have expectations, but your health and well-being come first. Politely but firmly set boundaries that protect your time and energy. It’s okay to say no to gatherings, limit visitors, or keep the baby with you rather than passing your newborn around. Consider scripting responses in advance, such as: “We’d love to celebrate with you, but we’re keeping things low-key this year to focus on rest and recovery.”

3. Prioritize Rest

Newborns don’t understand holiday schedules. This means sleepless nights and irregular routines can persist. Make rest a priority whenever possible. Take advantage of quiet moments, delegate tasks, and don’t feel guilty about taking breaks to recharge.

4. Lean on Your Support System

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s someone bringing over a meal, running errands, or holding the baby while you shower, small acts of support can make a huge difference. If you’re partnered, check in regularly to share responsibilities and emotional support.

5. Practice Gratitude

Postpartum life can feel overwhelming, but finding small moments of gratitude can be grounding. Whether it’s a warm cup of tea, a snuggle with your baby, or a kind word from a loved one, recognizing these moments can bring a sense of calm and joy to your day.

6. Let Go of Perfection

This is not the season for perfection. The holidays don’t have to look picture-perfect to be meaningful. Focus on what truly matters: the health, happiness, and love within your family.

7. Take Care of Your Mental Health

Postpartum life can bring about a range of emotions, from joy to anxiety to sadness. If the holiday season feels overwhelming or you’re struggling, reach out to a trusted friend, a family member, or a postpartum therapist. There’s no shame in seeking support when you need it. Bridger Peaks Counseling offers postpartum anxiety and depression therapy at both their Bozeman and Missoula offices.

8. Celebrate Small Wins

Navigating the holidays with a newborn is no small feat. Celebrate the small victories—whether it’s getting through a holiday dinner, finding time to decorate the tree, or simply getting lots of rest. The holidays are a time for connection and love, but they’re also a time to care for yourself and honor this unique season in your life. By embracing simplicity, setting boundaries, and prioritizing your well-being, you can create a holiday experience that is meaningful and manageable for your postpartum family. This year, give yourself the gift of grace. You deserve it.

Take the First Step Toward a Joyful Postpartum Holiday Season

The holidays can be a challenging time for postpartum families, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by expectations, struggling with postpartum emotions, or simply need a supportive space to talk, help is available. At Bridger Peaks Counseling, we specialize in postpartum anxiety and depression therapy and are here to support you through this season. Together, we can create a plan to help you prioritize your well-being and find moments of joy and connection during the holidays.

1. Contact us today to schedule a session in our Bozeman or Missoula offices.

2. Learn more about postpartum by reading our blogs.

3. Let’s make this holiday season one of care, grace, and healing.

Additional Services We Offer in Bozeman & Missoula, MT

At Bridger Peaks Counseling, we’re dedicated to offering a diverse range of mental health services to support your unique needs. Our mental health therapists provide teen counseling, group therapy, Rising Strong workshops, and body image counseling. We also offer specialized care for depression, grief and loss, and online therapy options. Other services include EMDR, trauma therapy, and psychiatric care.

Finding the Right Fit: Questions to Ask Potential Therapists

Seeking therapy in Missoula, MT can be a transformative journey towards healing and personal growth. Finding the right therapist for you is a crucial part of a successful therapeutic experience. With so many therapists and therapeutic approaches available, it can be helpful to ask questions to better understand your options. If you find that you want more information before setting up an intake session, request a consultation call with a potential therapist. Here are some questions you may consider asking to better understand the therapist’s approach:

What is your therapeutic approach or orientation?

Understanding the therapist’s approach can give you insight into how they work and whether it aligns with your needs and preferences. Some common therapeutic approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, solution-focused approach, and mindfulness-based approaches.

What experience do you have in treating issues similar to mine?

It’s helpful to work with a therapist who has experience and expertise in dealing with issues relevant to your concerns. This could be anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, or specific mental health conditions. That being said, most therapists have a general knowledge that can apply to different presenting issues and may be a fit for you regardless of direct experience.

What are your qualifications and credentials?

Ensure that the therapist is licensed and accredited by relevant professional organizations in your area. Ask about their educational background, training, and any specialized certifications they may have.

What is your availability and scheduling process?

Clarify logistical details such as appointment availability, session duration, and the therapist’s policy regarding cancellations and rescheduling. It’s crucial to find a therapist whose schedule aligns with yours to ensure regular and consistent sessions.

What is your approach to confidentiality and privacy?

It can be helpful to understand the therapist’s confidentiality policies and how they handle your personal information. Reassurance about confidentiality can help you feel safe and comfortable sharing sensitive information during therapy.

How do you handle crises or emergencies?

Inquire about the therapist’s procedures for handling emergencies or crises that may arise between sessions. Knowing that your therapist has a plan in place can provide peace of mind, especially if you’re dealing with acute mental health issues.

What are your fees and payment options?

Discuss the therapist’s fees, payment methods, and whether they accept insurance or offer sliding scale fees based on income. Understanding the financial aspect of therapy upfront can help you plan and budget for your sessions.

How do you approach cultural diversity and inclusivity in therapy?

It’s essential to work with a therapist who respects and values cultural diversity and is sensitive to issues of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and other identities. Ask about their approach to cultural competence and inclusivity in therapy.

How will we measure progress and success in therapy?

Discuss the therapist’s approach to tracking progress and evaluating the effectiveness of therapy. Establishing clear goals and benchmarks can help you assess whether therapy is helping you achieve the desired outcomes. Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal process. It’s okay to take your time and ask questions to ensure you make an informed decision. Trust your instincts and prioritize finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. Remember that therapy is a collaborative journey. Finding the right fit can make all the difference in your path toward healing and growth.

Get Started Today with a Therapist in Missoula, MT Today

If anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges is affecting your daily life, reach out for professional help At Bridger Peaks Counseling. Our therapists in Missoula, MT are here to support you on your journey to better mental health. Together, we can create a plan to manage your mental health and improve your quality of life.

1. Schedule a free consultation.

2. Learn more about us and our approach.

3. Have your first therapy session and find relief!

Other Therapy Services We Offer in Missoula & Bozeman, MT

Our team of caring counselors at Bridger Peaks Counseling is happy to provide a variety of mental health services. Our team is happy to offer services including addiction counseling, teen counseling, group therapy, rising strong workshops, and body image counseling. Furthermore, we provide depression treatment, trauma therapy, and online grief counseling. Along with EMDR, postpartum anxiety depression counseling, marriage counseling, and psychiatric care. Visit our blog or FAQ to learn more today!