Finding Joy During the Holidays

The Holidays are an exciting time of year for many people. Our culture tends to focus on family, friends, parties, and gifts during the Fall and Winter months. While some people truly enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Holidays, many more feel anxious, stressed, and depressed when faced with all that the Holidays bring. If you are one of the latter mentioned, you may be experiencing the Holiday Blues.

THERE ARE MANY TRIGGERS FOR THE HOLIDAY BLUES, INCLUDING:

Winter Weather - Shorter days with less sunlight and colder temperatures that urge you to stay indoors.
Loneliness - Parties, baking, decorating, and sightseeing always seems better with a partner. It can be a very lonely time if you do not have a significant other or friend to share the memories with.
Finances - The opportunity for overspending is highest near the Holidays. If you have a financial barrier, it may cause you to feel inadequate.
Memories - Poor memories from the past may keep you down during this time of year. Also, memories of loved ones that are no longer with us are typically strongest during the Holidays.

HOW TO FIND JOY DURING THE HOLIDAYS:

Get Regular Exercise - While you may not feel like you have the time to exercise during the holidays, the benefits are worth it. Studies have shown that exercise has a significant anti-anxiety/anti-depression effect. You may not be able to exercise outdoors, but you can replace that with exercise videos in your living room or take an extra lap around the grocery store while shopping.
Eat Sensibly - When you’re facing a dozen holiday parties and family gatherings between now and New Year’s, it’s hard to stay committed to a sensible diet, BUT DO YOUR BEST! Eating healthy may keep you feeling better -- physically and emotionally. On the other hand, don’t beat yourself up if you go overboard on the cookie platter in the break room… Just get back on track the next day!
Don’t Overindulge in Holiday Spirits - The Holidays are a time of heavy drinking for many, and with all the parties and gatherings, alcohol is sure to be featured. Alcohol and other recreational drugs are commonly misused strategies for overcoming anxiety. Remember that alcohol is a depressant, and abusing it will leave you feeling worse.
Tackle Your To-Do List Together - Extra shopping and errands are inevitable this time of year. Make those responsibilities FUN by inviting a close friend to tag along. You can both cross things off your to-do list while enjoying quality time together. Don’t be afraid to invite someone to hang out while you decorate your home, either!
Make Gifts Instead of Buying - When you have a long list of friends, family, coworkers, etc., that you like to give gifts – it can get pricey. Consider making homemade gifts instead! You can save money by watching for sales at craft stores or using the extra jars you have been storing. Everyone loves receiving a homemade gift!
HELP OTHERS! - It is impossible to be sad when you are giving back to others. This could look like hanging your elderly neighbor’s Christmas lights, working at a soup kitchen, or just offering to carry someone’s groceries to their car. Set aside some time to give your helping hand to someone in need; it will surely bring you JOY.
Seek Medical Help - If you find that these tips are not helping to ease your Holiday Blues, you may need to seek the help of a Mental Health Professional. Monitor for symptoms of persistent anxiety or sadness, lack of appetite or energy, irritability, and hopelessness. Reach out to your primary care physician.