Coping with the Holidays

Coping with the Holidays
By Robert Goodman, MSW
 
 
The holidays are supposed to be a time for family gathering, happiness, joyous celebrations, and hope. Unfortunately, for many it is a time of loneliness and sadness. The stress of the holidays can cause anxiety and depression.
Here are some suggestions by psychologists and social workers on how to cope with the holidays:

1. Understand how the holidays affect you. What do they mean to you?
2. If your holiday blues are a result of the stress from all the extra demands of the holidays, do some things to reduce the demands. Rethink how you view and approach the holidays.
3. If your holiday blues are stemming from past losses, take advantage of the holidays to help you complete your mourning and lessen your grieving over the loss.
4. Organize and plan your activities during this period. Stay busy and avoid unstructured time. Spend time in the clubhouse, participating in the many activities that are available. Exercise. Get involved in synagogue or church activities.
5. Don’t isolate yourself. If you can’t be with family, invite some close friends over to share the holidays.
6. Think of the blessings in your life: friends, children, grandchildren, etc.
7. Volunteer your time.
8. Try to avoid alcohol.
9. Watch your finances. Overspending will cause worry over bills after the holidays are over.
10. Don’t deny or try to hide your feelings of sadness. Seek professional help.
11. Take time to reflect on past friendships and pleasant memories.