The Christmas season is supposed to be a time full of joy, good cheer and optimistic hopes for a new year. However, many persons experience much depression and stress during this time of the year. Therefore in an effort to circumvent those feelings, it is important for you to know that there are steps you can take to help beat the blues this holiday season.
? Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable. This meanssetting realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time. Make a list and prioritize the most important activities. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do.
? Your financial situation can cause stress and depression especially during this time of the year. Therefore avoid excessive spending by making a budget and sticking to it. Remember to put aside money for bills and emergencies.
? Acknowledge your feelings. If a loved one has recently died, or you are not near your loved ones, realize that it’s normal to feel sadness or grief. Give yourself permission to acknowledge your feelings and do whatever you wish to express them. Seek support, if you feel isolated or down, from family members and friends.
? Let go of the past. Don’t be disappointed if your holidays are not like what they used to be. Life brings changes. Each holiday season is different and can be enjoyed in itsown way. Don’t set yourself up for sadness by thinking everything has to be just like the “good old days.” Look towards the future.
? Do something for someone else. It is an old remedy, but it can help. Try volunteering some time to help others.
? Enjoy holiday activities that are free, such as driving around to look at Christmas decorations. Go window shopping without buying anything.
? Drink plenty of water. Often we do not even realize we are dehydrated. Make sure you are drinking adequate water. Dehydration can cause headaches, irritability and tiredness.
? Avoid drinking too much alcohol. Excessive drinking will only make you more depressed.
? Don’t be afraid to try so=mething new. Celebrate the holidays in a way you have not done before.
? Spend time with people who are supportive and who care about you. Reach out to make new friends if you are alone during special times. Contacting someone with whom you have lost touch can be a great help.
? Find time for yourself. Don’t spend all of your time providing activities for your family and friends. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending at least 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.
? Focus on the positives rather than the negatives. Have fun, laugh and enjoy the precious time you have to spend with family and friends.
? Accept that things are not always going to go as planned or as you desire. It is wise at times to just take things as they come. Do your best and leave the rest. You may just surprise yourself that youactually enjoy the holidays this year more than you thought you could.
Remember: We don’t see things as they are; we see them as we are. It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy what we have that makes happiness.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL!
