Christmas is often described as a time of joy, connection, and togetherness. And for some people, it is. But for many others, the Christmas season brings a quiet heaviness, a mix of obligation, old family dynamics, unspoken tension, and emotional exhaustion. If you find yourself feeling more on edge, tearful, or overwhelmed around family at this time of year, there is nothing wrong with you. Christmas has a way of shining a light on relationships that already feel complicated