When Christmas Isn’t All Bubbles and Cheer

Supporting Your Clients Over the Festive Season

Let’s face it—deciding which champagne to drink on Christmas Day sounds like a “first-world problem,” but for many people, this season isn’t all sparkles and joy. For those who are neurodivergent, or living with complex trauma, the holidays can feel like an emotional storm, with family dramas, loneliness, and societal pressure dialled up to 100.

Some of your clients don’t have safe, healthy relationships with their families. And guess what? For many, your horse and YOU are the only safe space they feel truly accepted. No pressure, right?

Now, before you pour your well-deserved bubbly and take a break (because yes, you deserve that), let’s talk about how you can make sure your clients are prepped and supported while you’re out of the paddock for a few days.

🎄Holiday Blues Are Real:
The festive season is polarising—it’s either magical or a nightmare. For your clients, it’s often the latter. This is why mental health challenges spike at this time of year.

👻 Don’t Ghost Your Clients (Figuratively, of Course):
Take some time before your break to make sure they’re ready to tackle the holidays without their regular sessions. Even a quick “let’s make a plan” chat can go a long way.

😎 Equip Them for Success:

Share a few go-to tips for managing the chaos, like grounding techniques or “take a break from the madness” activities. Suggest other ways to connect, like online communities, local groups, or a favourite book that feels like a warm hug.

The holidays aren’t easy for everyone, and as much as we’d love to believe our clients have it sorted, a little extra care on your part can make a huge difference. Prep them, cheer them on, and then go enjoy your Christmas break guilt-free—because you’ve done your part to make sure they’re not just surviving, but thriving.

Cheers to you!

Felicity x