For many years, I have suffered the holiday blues. At first I thought that I was crazy for feeling sad during the happiest time of the year. However, it turns out that I wasn’t the only one. Holiday blues, although affects all kinds of people, hit some groups of people hardest. Those who are most affected by the holiday blues are the elderly, the sick, those who have lost a loved one, and those who are single or living alone. People with many problems are also affected. The holiday blues can make you feel isolated and cut off from the cheerful world. But you should know that it doesn’t need to be that way. There are many ways to cope with the blues to make your holidays happier and more bearable.
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Focus on the Present
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Photo Credit: bitzi?
It is absolutely fine that you give yourself the time to grieve about issues that trouble you. However, once you are done grieving and dealing with the pain, it is recommended that you focus on the present. Learn to let go of past issues and start focusing on the present. Create new traditions and practices to make the holidays feel like a new and exciting time.
Volunteer
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Photo Credit: Mosman Library
Helping others is surefire way of making you feel better and happier. You can volunteer with a charity or do your own good deeds. See other people smile and feel your holiday blues lift, even if just temporarily.
Frequently asked questions
Be with People Who Love You
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Photo Credit: cheerblossom
Isolation will only worsen your feelings of sadness and depression. Be with people who love and understand you. You need all the support you can get.
See the Positive Side in Your Family
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Photo Credit: Autumn2May
Understand that your family is and never was perfect. Instead of focusing on their negative traits, why don’t you start to recognize their positive points? Don’t think that people will change just because it’s the holidays.
Turn Preparations into Bonding Time
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Photo Credit: Natalie Wall
Try shopping with your loved ones as if you are shopping with good friends. Plan meals with your parents or siblings. Put up decorations with the kids in your family. Instead of trying to do everything by yourself, find ways to turn holiday preparations into a source of goodwill instead of strife.
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Reconnect with Old Friends
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Photo Credit: nicoleee_murph
If your holiday blues are triggered by loneliness, then it would be great idea to reconnect with old friends. I’m sure that you have someone in your life with whom you lost touch or contact. It can give you a boost of spirit to catch up with old friends.
Stay Active and Healthy
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Photo Credit: gene5335
Even though you are on a holiday doesn’t mean you can let yourself go. Continue to exercise and eat healthy. Don’t drink too much alcohol and soda. Drink lots of water. Try to get as much sunlight exposure as you can. Lack of light exposure can be a contributing factor to depression and sadness.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
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Photo Credit: The Andrea
Don’t feel guilty about feeling the way you do. It would help if you can talk about the way you feel with someone you trust. Acknowledge your feelings but do not wallow in them.
Be Honest about Your Financial Situation
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Photo Credit: sparkieblues
Sometimes gift giving can put pressure and undue stress on people with financial problems. If this applies to you, then it would be best if you are honest and open about it. Say no to gift giving if you must or you can give homemade gifts. You can also come up with traditions that don’t need excessive spending.
Do Fun and Free Activities
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Photo Credit: a temporary fix.
Look in local listings to find holiday activities that are fun and free. You can watch free plays, go caroling, or join friends at a party.
Treat and Pamper Yourself
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Photo Credit: WHUhnnnnnnnn
Don’t forget about yourself during the holiday season. Buy something you’ve always wanted or do things you’ve never had time to do. Don’t be too hard on yourself on the holidays. Relax and pamper yourself.
You can be hit with sadness or depression any time of the year. But it can be twice as hard to deal with these feelings during the holiday season. I hope that this list will help you get through this tough time. Remember that you just need to face this head on with honesty, hope, and determination, just as you would with other low moments in your life. Draw strength from the positive vibe of the world and feel your spirits lift.
Top Photo Credit: Sash´s Kitchen-Studio Photography
