“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”
Tis the time for family gatherings, office parties, school vacations, and holiday cheer. Sounds like true joy, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, the holiday season can be a time of negative emotions too. So, we talked with a few of our Behavioral Health therapists to get some details:
- Complicated relationship with family members: Being forced to spend time with someone you don't want to spend time with is uncomfortable. Prepare yourself by setting a time limit, setting boundaries, and having someone there who will help you avoid the person if you need to.
- Not Enough Sleep: We stay up late with family or get-togethers and often don’t get enough sleep during the holidays. But even while you’re on vacation, keep the kids in their routine otherwise everyone will be crabby.
- Depression: Anyone who already has depression may experience even more during the holidays. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of people with an existing mental illness report that the holidays make their condition worse.
- Grieving the loss of a loved one: Holidays are often the hardest time to cope with having lost a loved one. The empty chair at the table is a true reminder that someone is gone. Plus, what do you say? Do you acknowledge it? Do you ignore it? Our experts suggest talking about it. Share your favorite holiday memories with each other. Laugh and cry together, not alone.
- Financial issues: Stop worrying about buying gifts. Instead, think of Experiences. Come up with a fun day that can give you and your loved one something to remember – sledding, ice skating or roller skating. A trip to the library or FIM or FIA. Those are more memorable than a shirt that will be outgrown.
See the videos below for more tips on managing holiday emotions from our Behavioral Health team at Hamilton.
Grief and Loss During the Holidays
Dealing with Difficult Family Situations
Tips for Holiday Wellness and Mindfulness
