The holiday season is a time of joy, festivities, and togetherness, but not for everyone. For many individuals, this time of year can evoke feelings of sadness, loneliness, and stress, commonly referred to as the “holiday blues”.
Albert Ujkaj, LMSW, Director of Behavioral Health at Hamilton Community Health Network, treats people who experience the holiday blues, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, each year. Ujkaj wants to remind everyone that there are ways to get through this holiday season and make it a little brighter.
The holiday blues can be brought on by numerous reasons, such as grief, stressful family dynamics, expectations, financial hardships, etc. Understanding why you are feeling the holiday blues can help you get through them and make it easier to navigate.
Why do you feel the Holiday Blues?
- Social Expectations: There is often societal pressure to be cheerful and sociable during the holidays, which can be overwhelming for those who may be dealing with personal challenges or losses.
- Family Dynamics: The holidays can bring families together, but they can also exacerbate existing tensions and conflicts, leading to increased stress and emotional turmoil.
- Financial Strain: The pressure to buy gifts, decorate homes, and host gatherings can strain finances, causing additional stress for individuals already grappling with economic challenges.
- Loneliness: Not everyone has a robust support system or a close-knit family. For those who feel isolated, the emphasis on togetherness during the holidays can intensify feelings of loneliness.
- Reminders of Loss: For those who have experienced the loss of a loved one or significant life changes, the holiday season may serve as a poignant reminder of what once was, amplifying grief and sadness.
Albert’s Tips to manage Holiday Blues:
- Tip #1: Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay not to feel festive all the time. Acknowledge your emotions and give yourself permission to feel the way you do.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Manage expectations, both for yourself and others. It’s okay if your holiday season doesn’t mirror a picture-perfect movie. Real life is messy, and that’s perfectly normal.
- Create New Traditions: If old traditions are causing distress, consider creating new ones. Whether it’s volunteering, exploring a new hobby, or taking a solo trip, find activities that bring you joy and break away from the holiday mold.
- Seek Support: Connect with friends, support groups, or mental health professionals. Sharing your feelings with others can be therapeutic, and professional help can provide valuable coping strategies.
- Practice Self-Care: Take time for yourself to improve your mental and emotional well-being. This can include meditation, exercise, reading, or simply spending time in nature.
- Remember Loved Ones: It’s okay to take the time to remember those we have lost. Turn it into a healing activity such as scrapbooking your favorite memories or journaling your favorite moments. Understand that your loved ones would want you to have a happy holiday while keeping them close at heart.
By acknowledging your feelings, setting realistic expectations, and prioritizing self-care, you can navigate through the holiday season with resilience. Remember, your well-being is essential, and taking steps to care for yourself is a meaningful way to approach the holidays.
Need someone to talk to about your Holiday Blues? Reach out to Albert Ujkaj or another Hamilton Behavioral Health Specialist. Get on their schedule today by calling 810.406.4246 or visiting HamiltonCHN.org.
