Peace, love and joy are common themes in our culture during December as we find ourselves surrounded by family, food and holiday fun. But the truth is that for many, the holidays are a time of stress and uncertainty.
Loma Linda University Health’s health library features an article on this very topic called Help for the Holiday Blues. With causes that can include everything from shopping stress, debt, missed loved ones, family conflict and personal pressures, the holiday blues can impact anyone.
While stressors will continue to be a part of everyday life, here are a few tips to help you stay a little less blue this holiday season.
• Talk to a close friend. Sharing concerns helps to take the pressure away.
• Avoid alcohol consumption, as it will only exacerbate the blues.
• Try to maintain a daily routine. Consistency helps to let you know that you are in control.
• Try to budget your holidays, reasonably.
• When planning your holidays and new year, set realistic goals.
• Avoid situations that will cause pressure and stress. You are allowed to say no.
• Find time for you. Peace and solitude can be beneficial when you can just turn off the business of the world.
• Since you have already taken the initiative to budget this Christmas, try to find free, fun holiday activities.
• Think outside the box and find your own unique way to celebrate the holidays. Don’t feel confined to set traditions. These can lead to stress and expense. Just have fun with it.
The holiday blues are common, but if you feel that you are especially down this year – for example, your sleep or appetite are affected – please contact your health care provider. The Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute may be an option.