Not Feeling the "Merry" in Merry Christmas? How to Beat the 'Ber' Month Blues

The Christmas lights are blinking on Edsa, Jose Mari Chan is on every speaker, and your Tita is already asking on the family group chat what you’re bringing for Noche Buena. 

By all accounts, you should be happy. It’s "Paskong Pinoy," the longest and happiest Christmas in the world. 

But what if you’re not? 

If you are feeling heavier, more tired, or anxious this December 2025, you are not a Scrooge. You might be experiencing the "Ber Month Blues" (or Seasonal Affective Disorder), and frankly, with the rainy La Niña weather we've been having lately, it’s no surprise. 

Here is why you might be feeling this way, and how to protect your peace this holiday season. 

1. It’s Not Just "Drama," It’s Biology (and Weather) 

We often joke about the "bed weather" this December, but the lack of sunlight during these rainy weeks can genuinely mess with your brain. 

• The Science: Less sunlight means less serotonin (the happy hormone) and more melatonin (the sleep hormone). This combo can make you feel lethargic and sad. 

• The Fix: When the sun does peek out between the clouds, go outside! Even 15 minutes of morning light can help reset your body clock. If it’s raining non-stop, try to keep your indoor lights bright during the day to trick your brain into staying alert. 

2. The "Perfect Family" Trap 

Filipino culture puts a massive premium on the "Happy Family Reunion." But for many, reunions mean navigating toxic questions: "Bakit wala ka pang asawa?" (Why are you still single?), "Parang tumaba ka?" (Did you gain weight?), or the silent pressure of being

compared to your balikbayan cousin. 

• The Fix: The "Polite Pivot." You don't need to engage in a debate. 

• Them: "Kailan ka mag-aasawa?" 

• You: "Naku Tita, enjoying work pa po! By the way, ang sarap ng dala niyong Lechon, saan niyo binili?" 

• Boundary Hack: You are allowed to say "No" to small gatherings to save your social battery for the big Noche Buena. You don't have to attend every single inaanaks' party. 

3. The Empty Chair at the Table 

For families who lost a loved one recently (or even years ago), December can amplify the grief. The noise of the holidays often makes the silence of their absence louder. 

• The Fix: Don’t ignore the empty chair. Acknowledge it. 

• Start a new tradition: Light a specific candle for them during dinner, or cook their favorite dish as a tribute. 

• It is okay to cry during Christmas. It doesn’t ruin the mood; it honors the love you still have for them. 

4. The "Aguinaldo" Anxiety 

Let’s be real: Inflation is real. The pressure to give gifts to everyone—from your nieces to the subdivision security guard—can be financially paralyzing. 

• The Fix: Normalizing "Presence over Presents." 

• Be honest with your budget. Real friends and family will understand if you say, "Pass muna sa heavy gifts this year, bumabawi pa sa budget." 

• Focus on consumable gifts (cookies, homemade atchara) rather than expensive gadgets. They are cheaper, personal, and disappear (so no clutter!). 

Prioritize Your Holistic Wellness

Sometimes, physical fatigue and stress are signs that your body needs a reset. Don't wait for the "New Year, New Me" rush. 

HealthFirst Clinic is here to support you. Whether it’s a general wellness check-up to rule out physical causes for your fatigue, or simply getting your health baseline before 2026, we are your partners in health. 

[Book a Wellness Screening Today]  

(02) 8860 9740 

Sources: 

1. PAGASA. (December 2025). Climate Outlook and La Niña Advisory. 

2. Makati Medical Center. (n.d.). Holiday Blues: What is Seasonal Affective Disorder? 

3. Department of Health (DOH). (2025). Mental Health Tips for the Holidays. 

4. American Psychological Association. (2024). Holiday Depression and Stress.