Holiday Blues
We're quickly approaching that time of year when stores are flooded with holiday decor, every commercial you see has a jingle bell tune, and every movie is focused on the great big happy family around the dinner table or the couple who finally realizes they belong together under the mistletoe. For some, this is THE most wonderful time of the year, but for others, it may be the most dreaded. The holidays can bring up feelings of loneliness and isolation, but it's okay to have mixed feelings about this time of year. You're not alone in this, and your feelings are valid.
There might be those who don't celebrate the holidays designated in November through January or who have different cultural or religious traditions. There may be folks who don't want to sit around the table with their whole family or some who have lost family, and the holidays are a constant reminder. Whatever your reason may be that you aren't looking forward to this time of year, that's completely valid! It can be overwhelming and distressing, with lots of room for different emotions and feelings to come up.
What are some things we can do to combat the holiday blues?
It can seem like the whole world shuts down during this time of year. I challenge you to take this as an opportunity to your advantage. We can use the downtime the holidays seem to create as time for ourselves. Maybe we'll finally have the time to read that new book you were so excited to buy, try a new hobby, listen to your favorite music, and take time for yourself. Taking time for yourself and caring for yourself, how ever that might look for you, is the best present you can give yourself this holiday season.
The great thing about the holidays is that they will pass, just like summer comes and goes, how the flowers bloom in the spring but only after the rain, and the holidays come, and they too will pass. You're not alone during this time. I encourage you to take the time you need for yourself and this can look different for each person. You are able to say no to things that you just might not want to go to, and you can take space away from an event or a gathering to take a breather. We can take care of ourselves and well being in many different ways this holiday season.
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