The festive season can be joyful and a welcome break from our day-to-day worries and stress. But at the House of Hope, we understand that it can feel overwhelming for anyone undergoing or recovering from breast cancer treatment. You may not be feeling joyful or festive and that's okay.
The pressure to be merry, the busy social calendar, and expectations around family, traditions and gift-giving can all feel like too much.
We've created a wee guide to remind you that your wellbeing and boundaries matter and that doing things at your pace (or opting out altogether) is absolutely OK.
You don’t have to say yes to every invitation
It’s completely okay if you don’t feel up to gatherings or small family events. The effects of treatment, tiredness, or emotional strain might make socialising daunting.
So we suggest a gentle “thank you for thinking of me, I may need to decide closer to the time” or “I’d love to be there, but I need to keep things quiet this year” is enough. Just remember, you’re caring for yourself, not letting anyone down.
Let go of the 'perfect Christmas' pressure
Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect. Your celebrations can be quieter or smaller. You can order food instead of cooking, or let everyone else take the strain this year, rest instead of entertaining; you can do less and still have a lovely Christmas.
Rethink gift-giving
Gift shopping can be exhausting. Give yourself the OK to buy fewer gifts, choose simple presents, shop online, or ask someone else to help. And remember that children need your presence and connection more than perfection.
Asking for help is an act of strength
Most people around you will want to help but don’t know how. Make a list for them, and you can be specific: a food shop, gift wrapping, a half-hour to yourself, or childcare. Letting others help means you have space for rest, which is healing and will lead to a better experience for everyone.
Self-care that supports you
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Take short, quiet moments, practise some gentle movement (our classes are ideal for this!), enjoy tasty, nourishing food, journal, lose yourself in a cheesy festive movie. Enjoy little moments and see how they make a big difference to your overall mood.
Emotional waves are normal
We know that the festive season can bring out strong feelings of grief, anxiety, exhaustion, relief, and gratitude, and these can come over you all at once. Trust us, this is normal, it's OK, and however you feel is completely valid.
The House of Hope community is here for you
If you need a moment of calm, a warm cuppa, support, or simply a space where people understand what you're going through, the House of Hope is here. Our centre will be open until 19th December, before our team takes a well-earned festive rest. We’ll be back in the New Year, ready to support you again through 2026.
You deserve a Christmas that respects and honours where you are on your journey. We're sending you strength and hope.
The House of Hope Team x
However you're feeling is completely valid
