Holidays are traditionally times for celebration. Individuals around the world may celebrate differently but, the common denominator is holidays are a time to rejoice and give thanks. Families and friends often gather to share love and create positive memories. Unfortunately for many the holidays can trigger depression. A white Christmas may often appear rather blue. Seasonal depression can develop due to environmental changes as well as situational factors. There can be many causes for feeling down during these month of festivities.
Studies have shown decreased warm weather or time in the sun negatively effect the mood. According to Mayo Clinic, many may suffer from seasonal affective disorder or “SAD”. SAD symptoms typically begin in the fall and continue through the winter. Many suffer silently year after year and remain undiagnosed. Treatment for SAD includes light therapy (phototherapy), medication, and/or psychotherapy. Do your research and know what options for relief are out there for you.
Loss of a loved one during these seasons or having to experience the holidays without a loved one can trigger depression. This is understandable and a normal emotional reaction. People are not robots and feel for others long after they have passed. I encourage everyone to embrace the emotion rather than hide it or stuff it in. The sooner you go through the various stages of emotions that come with grief and loss, the sooner you can move forward and create new holiday memories with the people you still have left or perhaps have not even met yet.
Isolation can trigger the holiday blues. If you are someone who is usually alone during most of the year, not by choice, but by circumstance, the holidays may intensify the feeling of isolation. Do not let loneliness overwhelm you. Push yourself to get out and try new things and meet new people. Stepping outside your comfort zone is definitely not easy. However, the benefits may be exponential. Don’t underestimate virtual options as well. Besides dating apps, there are virtual groups, chats, book clubs, cooking clubs, enthusiast clubs, even virtual get togethers. If you don’t try something new at some point there will be little to no change. Use the holiday season to jump start your socialization and expand your inner circle
Unresolved family conflicts can make the holiday season draining and dragging. Unfortunately, there are only a few options to deal with this barrier. First, try and solve the conflict if possible, life is short and no condition is permanent. Some conflicts can not be solved in one day over stuffing and turkey. However, the holiday season may put you in a room with an individual your rarely see and open up an opportunity to communicate slowly, chipping the conflict away. You may need to be the bigger person, which is never fun but, often beneficial. Secondly, family can in fact be toxic. Retuning to a toxic environment even for just the holidays can be unhealthy. Preserve your mental health and stay away. You can reach out telephonically or virtually if possible. Then create your own holiday environment and surround yourself with healthy loved ones. Lastly, if you can’t squash the conflict or stay away, limit your time in the environment and plan something that you enjoy afterwards. Meet up with friends or take some me time, whatever works for you. We can’t choose our families for the most part, the goal is to make the best of a less than stellar situation and not get dragged down into drama.
Financial troubles can arise during the holidays. In a society where gifts and lavish meals are highlighted as part of the season. Not having the income to do these things can trigger negative feelings. Look, all you can do is your best. The true people in your corner will understand and hold you up. Even children despite wanting this and that, will understand the situation, if they were taught before hand the true meaning of the holidays. These seasons are about being thankful not focusing on what you don’t have, used to have, or wish you had. There are also many fun and creative things to do during the holidays that cost little to nothing. Do your very best to create positive memories despite your financial status. Get creative. Everything will not be perfect. The lack of finances will not be completely unnoticed, however it does not have to be the primary focus of the season. Do your best and keep moving forward. Eventually things will turn around, maybe even before the next holiday season.
Poor health and currently the Covid 19 pandemic can limit the joyful holiday spirit. Not being able to celebrate the way you did in the past can be troubling. However, you are still on this earth and have the opportunity to create new memories, celebrate differently, and still enjoy yourself. As always a support system is important. Surround yourself with people who can anticipate your needs and offer to help you make the best of whatever situation. Outside of your support system your attitude will be key. Many health issues and precautions can’t be ignored or swept under a rug for the sake of the holidays. Many illnesses and diagnosis can be limiting. Nevertheless, as long as you draw breath you can try something new. It may not be the same, but it beats the alternative of wishing on the past to return. That is a dark and defeating road. Make the mental choice to celebrate anyway possible. Our minds control our thoughts and then our behaviors. Choose to celebrate life.
Do not feel like you are the only one going through these emotions during this time of year. If you have a support system around you, don’t hesitate to lean on them. That is what a support system is for. If you can’t lean on them, then one might need to focus on building one. A support system does not only need to be friends and family. Seek out a therapist, a pastor, an open community group, or even a hotline. Talk out your feelings don’t attempt to bottle everything up. Like all things the Holiday season too will pass. Stay busy with meaningful and fulfilling activities. Volunteer in your community, help out at church, join a short term cause, find a seasonal event you enjoy to be a part of like a run, hike, or fundraiser. These activities will not erase all your negative feelings during this time of year, but they will assist you in getting from one point to the next. Sometimes that is all we need.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays sincerely from Roze's Corner!
Although I love the Holidays, I am aware that it could be a stressful time for many. I am also aware that many are lonely and depressed during that time, therefore, I tried to reach out and bring joy.
This year was a struggle, I hope next year will be great for everyone!
My heart really goes out to those that are alone this Christmas. COVID has caused many lives ones to be spending Christmas alone. I tried to let them know they are loved.
This was one of my worst holidays. Didnt see anyone.
I struggle with seasonal blues and this year was definitely worse. I try to focus on one day at a time and a gratitude journal has definitely helped me.