Coping With Holiday Blues

     The holidays are here and many people are already feeling stress over what is supposed to be a time of celebration and joy.  There are many reasons why people feel sad or overwhelmed during this time.  Thousands of Americans have faced unemployment and feel financial pressure as retailers stock shelves with items we “must” buy in order to achieve holiday bliss.  Members of the Military may be oceans away, often depending on email messages to wish “Merry Christmas” to family and friends.  Then there are those facing the difficult reality of a loved one who has died.  It’s difficult to know how to face a joyous season when in the process of grieving.  Charlie Brown said it best when he confided in Linus, “I just don’t understand Christmas.  Instead of feeling happy, I feel sort of let down.”

     Charlie Brown may have been comforted to know he wasn’t alone in feeling “let down”.  If you feel a sense of sadness this season, you’re not alone either.  Understanding your feelings are normal and allowing yourself to feel sad is important.  Grieving the loss of a job, being separated from a member of the family, or grieving the loss of a loved one is not easy.  But there are things you can do to make the holidays a little brighter.  These are some suggestions for overcoming holiday blues.

     1.  Surround yourself with people who understand what you are going through and are supportive.

     2.  Keep a holiday journal.  Write down your thoughts and feelings each day.  Allow yourself to write things that worry or upset you while still writing down things that bring you joy.

     3.  Decide what you can realistically do during the holidays and give yourself permission to “skip” activities if needed.  Let your family and friends know about your plans ahead of time if possible.

     4.  Challenge yourself to do something different during the holidays.  Start a new tradition, get involved in a toy drive or treat yourself to an ice cream sundae on Christmas Eve.  Mixing things up can ease the tension from the heavy expectations we place on ourselves.

     5.  Take care of yourself.  Get plenty of rest, eat right and do your best to get some exercise.   Most of all, take one day at a time. 

 If your feelings of sadness get worse, consider talking to a trusted friend, your minister, or a professional counselor.  Seasonal sadness can lead to depression.  Take care of yourself and seek help when you need it.  Charlie Brown was able to see a glimmer of hope despite the many obstacles he faced.  That’s all we need, just a little hope.