Holiday blues

December is a time when the whole world is celebrating with family and friends. Whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or another holiday, the world is joyful and cheery. However, it might not always be the case for some people. It can worsen stress and anxiety. So while you might feel down during the holidays, I’m going to give you some tips on how you can manage your emotions during the winter season. 

When it comes to the holidays, there are a lot of expectations that everything has to be “perfect” and these expectations can lead to stress. The idea that everything you do has to be flawless such as cooking and gift-wrapping can be overwhelming. To also add travel, financial issues and visiting family/friends is a whole other hassle. 

A second reason why you could feel down during the festive time of year is because of seasonal depression. This type of depression falls upon people during the winter months which is due to daylight savings. This leads to the days becoming shorter and the weather becoming colder. 
Holidays can also be a depressing time for people who have lost friends and/or family. The memory of these loved ones can upset you even more.

I’ve experienced holiday depression and there were times throughout the years where I couldn’t even celebrate Christmas due to a passing of a loved one or my mental state. There was even one Christmas where I cried at 2 am on Christmas Eve. And when I decided to go to therapy, that is when I learned to manage my depression and anxiety and cope with the pressures of the holidays. 

So whether it’s one reason or another, here are five ways you can manage your mental health.

• Therapy: Don’t neglect to go to therapy, even if you have something planned on that day. By going to therapy you are emptying your mind on whatever is troubling you and seeking advice. With the advice, you’ll be able to become less stressed and get through the day regardless of the schedule changes from your routine day. 
• Stick with a healthy diet: Of course, you can eat whatever you want during the holidays, but don’t overindulge. That can only add to your stress and guilt. Instead, consume a healthy snack before a meal so that you don’t go overboard. Get your daily exercise and try deep breathing exercises. Avoid alcohol and drug use.
• Self-care: Make sure you have time for yourself this holiday season as the holidays are usually about giving to others. Ideally, you should stay away from anything that triggers you and make sure you get enough sleep. Do something that would ease your mind. And when it comes to holiday-related work there is no shame to ask for help from your family or friends. 
• Give back: The holidays are a time of giving. Whether you volunteer at a charity shop or a soup kitchen, it’s hard to feel down when you help someone. Besides, giving to others is what the holidays are really about.
• Focus on the positive side of the holidays: Write a list of what you find enjoyable about the holidays and do them! While there might be times that you wish for this festive time to pass due to the emotions associated with whatever you are going through, you have to remember that the holidays only come once a year and you should make the most of it. Enjoy yourself and stay in the moment. 
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The holidays can be a stressful time of year. This is why you should find ways to prevent the stress that could escalate to depression and anxiety. If you are confused as to how, then go to therapy. Managing the holiday blues can prevent a breakdown. With positive thinking and planning, you can find peace and happiness during the holidays.  
Throughout this season if you need help then please get in contact with your local helplines:
https://checkpointorg.com/global/ 
- Indie