Ah, Christmas in Australia—a time for backyard cricket matches, squashing as much as you can in the recycling bin and sweating through your Santa hat.

It’s the season of carols in 35-degree heat, trying to keep the pavlova from collapsing and dodging the annual family argument about Karl going home bereft whilst wanting to choke Harry with that trashy necklace and smack him with some Joni Mitchell home truths. But let’s face it: for many Aussies, the holidays can feel like running a gauntlet of financial pressures, family expectations, and New Year’s resolutions lurking on the horizon.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. A recent survey revealed that 88% of people feel stressed during the holidays (American Psychological Association). So, in the spirit of humour and jest, let us ponder ways to handle the silly season without losing your cool or your sense of humour.

Don’t Beat Yourself Up—Take a Beat, a Breath, a Moment

Perfection? That’s for Hallmark movies. The rest of us are just trying to make sure the BBQ isn’t on fire and that nobody cries over Monopoly. If you feel yourself spiralling, stop. Take a deep breath. Maybe two. Repeat: It’s okay if the gravy is lumpy. No one is going to give you a Skippy Badge for being host of the year. Tip; the loo is your best friend for a sit and breathing session. (Just make sure the uncles haven’t used it first)

Listen to Your Body (It’s Passive-Aggressively Screaming at You)

Stress likes to hang out in your neck, shoulders, and jaw—basically anywhere that makes you look like a turtle. If your body feels like it’s staging a revolt, stretch, breathe, or flop dramatically onto the couch for five minutes. Your body isn’t subtle, so pay attention before it schedules a full meltdown.

Set Boundaries—Even for Uncle Gazza

Family time can be beautiful, but let’s be honest: it can also be like herding cats… with opinions. Family gatherings are like an Aussie summer storm: intense, unpredictable, and occasionally dramatic. Set limits before you dive in. Decide how long you’ll stay, what’s off-limits (politics, anyone?), and have an escape plan for when Uncle Gazza starts debating climate change after three beers. Everyone is different; we don’t all have to agree, and life would be boring without contrast, right? Or…..

Wine helps. I heard a cracker recently where Miss H plans for a friend to call her at a certain time, staging an “Oh my gosh, I have to dash” call, like a bad Tinder date rescue. Sometimes, desperate times call for desperate measures.

Focus on What You Can Control (Hint: It’s Not Other People)

You can’t stop your cousin from bringing that weird salad with the canned pineapple or your sibling from passive-aggressively commenting on your gift-wrapping skills. But you can control your own reactions. When in doubt, smile, nod, and pass the pavlova. Learn how to change subjects with tactful diplomacy, and soon, you will be slicker than a barista’s latte art.

Take an Hour to Reflect (Without Eye-Twitching)

Before the festive chaos kicks off, take some time to reflect. Write down five things you’ve learned and five things you’ve nailed this year. Celebrate your wins—no matter how small. Survived Sydney traffic? That counts. Didn’t burn the biscuits? Huge. You deserve a gold star (or at least a cookie) for making it through 2024. If you’re feeling fancy, add more to the list—it’s like a mini applause break for yourself.

Budget Like a Boss (Santa Would Approve)

Let’s be real: Christmas isn’t cheap. Before splurging on matching swimsuits for the family photo, set a budget and stick to it. And remember, meaningful gifts don’t have to cost a fortune—unless you’re buying air conditioning, which we all know is priceless in December. Homemade gifts can be a lovely and environmentally friendly heartfelt alternative, too!

Plan Downtime (Think Cold Drinks and Quiet Corners)

The Aussie summer heat can sap your energy faster than a great aunt with a penchant for endless chatter, so block out time for yourself. Whether it’s a solo swim, a lazy afternoon nap, or a quiet cuppa in the shade, you’ll thank yourself later. Maybe it’s an hour of daydreaming—you’re Laura Linney, but instead of playing her selfless, sacrificing character, you do a Noni Hazelhurst and boldly tell your brother, “Go the F*** to sleep, darling.” Whatever floats your boat. Think of it as recharging your “don’t snap at people” battery.

Communicate Your Needs (Or Just Chuck a “Do Not Disturb” Sign on the Esky)

If you’re juggling hosting duties, cooking, and maintaining your sanity, speak up. Ask for help. Share the load. Or, if all else fails, make an announcement: “This year, it’s a bring-your-own-prawn situation.” Or show up with a whistle and a clipboard—teamwork makes the dream work, right?

Limit Screen Time (And Resist the Insta-Envy)

Nothing fuels festive FOMO faster than scrolling through curated Instagram feeds of flawless beach picnics and Pinterest-worthy grazing boards. Spoiler: That picnic was probably swarmed by seagulls. Focus on your own messy, authentic celebration.

Going it Alone?

Find a neighbour or a friend to share the season with, or better yet, volunteer. Many places around the country are in need of a helping hand at Christmas. Keeping busy and being in service to others is a wonderful prescription for fighting off feelings of loneliness—and who knows, you might just find yourself making someone else’s holiday brighter in the process.

Remember the Big Picture (It’s Not About the Wrapping Paper)

At the end of the day, Christmas in Australia isn’t about perfectly folded serviettes or mastering your nan’s rum ball recipe. It’s about connection, laughter, and surviving the heat without melting into a puddle.

So, take a breath, pour yourself a cold one, and give yourself a break. Christmas is about making memories, embracing the chaos, and maybe even winning the backyard cricket game. Christmas can be a lot of things for many people. For our family, it is a special time to celebrate our Christian faith. Remember: If Kevin McCallister can take on two burglars at Christmas, you can survive your outlaws. You’ve got this!

Helpful Support Services for Tough Times

Lifeline
Website: www.lifeline.org.au
Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7 Support)

Beyond Blue
Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Phone: 1300 22 4636 (24/7 Support)

Suicide Call Back Service
Website: www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au
Phone: 1300 659 467

Kids Helpline
Website: www.kidshelpline.com.au
Phone: 1800 55 1800 (For ages 5-25, available 24/7)

MensLine Australia
Website: www.mensline.org.au
Phone: 1300 78 99 78

Headspace
Website: www.headspace.org.au
Support for young people aged 12-25

SANE Australia
Website: www.sane.org
Phone: 1800 18 7263

1800RESPECT
Website: www.1800respect.org.au
Phone: 1800 737 732 (Support for sexual assault, family, and domestic violence)

National Debt Helpline
Website: www.ndh.org.au
Phone: 1800 007 007 (Free financial counseling)

Emergency Services
Phone: 000 (For immediate danger or emergencies)

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