Holidays are supposed to feel joyful, but for many, they bring pressure, anxiety, and guilt. You want to keep the peace, but you also want to protect your mental health. You want to show up, but not lose yourself in the process.

In this episode, Jessica Davis, licensed therapist and creator of the C.O.U.R.A.G.E. Method, breaks down the hidden emotional labor behind family gatherings, why people pleasing is a survival response, and how to set boundaries without feeling like the bad guy. You’ll learn how to manage family expectations, calm anxiety before it spirals, and show up with confidence instead of fear.

✨ In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why holiday anxiety starts weeks before family gatherings
• The hidden reason people pleasing feels “safer”
• How to recognize the signs of emotional burnout around family
• Five practical tools for handling family pressure
• Simple boundary phrases to protect your peace
• How to show up as yourself without guilt or shame

Got a question or feedback? Text us and share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you!

RESOURCES:
Get your FREE Anxiety Survival Toolkit to help you when your anxiety is overwhelming!

Grab your FREE 90-Day Courage Challenge Cheat Sheet and start building confidence today.

📱 Follow Us:

Instagram | Facebook | Threads

🎙️ Presented by Davis-Smith Mental Health

This podcast was created by Davis-Smith Mental Health, offering counseling for teens & young adults in Illinois (only). We accept BCBS PPO, Aetna PPO, and self-pay clients.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Block Out the Noise provides personal insights and practical strategies to help manage anxiety and self-doubt. The content is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional mental health care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a crisis or need immediate assistance, please contact emergency services or a trusted mental health professional immediately.