Surviving the Holiday Blues

While many look forward to the holiday season, the food, aromas, and twinkling lights do not bring everyone joy. For some, this time of year can bring stress and sadness, making it difficult to be present at work and with family and friends. So, what exactly are the holiday blues, and how can you fix them? Let’s discuss!

What Are the Holiday Blues?

The holiday blues are feelings of anxiety, sadness, loneliness, depression, and painful reflection during the winter holiday season. Even for people who love the holidays, it is not uncommon to experience the holiday blues since it is a time of high demand, stress, and heightened emotions. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of people with mental illness report the holidays worsen their condition.

Coping With the Holiday Blues

During the holidays, intrusive thoughts can increase and send you into a poor mental state. Therefore, it is essential to take care of yourself throughout the season. Here’s how.

Check In With Yourself

Recognizing your feelings and being aware of physical and emotional changes is essential. If you’re feeling sad, irritable, or more exhausted than usual or having more trouble sleeping or eating, it may be time to ask for help. Checking in with yourself entails identifying what is worrying you, whether you’re providing your body with what it needs (enough sleep, nutrients, and physical movement), and determining if you’re doing things that bring you joy.

Avoid Holiday Stress

Avoiding stress is easier said than done, especially during the holidays. But you can do a few things to ease anxiety this season, such as setting boundaries with family and friends, limiting alcohol consumption, following a routine, and planning something fun for yourself after the holidays. Having something to look forward to can help you stay positive.

Don’t Isolate Yourself

Isolation is common for people who experience anxiety and depression. Some people isolate themselves to cope with excessive worry and avoid human interaction. In other cases, isolation results from anxiety, depression, and a craving for social interaction. Finding social support can decrease your chances of becoming consumed by the holiday blues. This includes having someone help you complete tasks or providing emotional support that makes you feel seen and understood.

Do you have any tips for how to deal with the holiday blues? Share them with us in the comments below!