Holiday Blues: When Christmas Feels Challenging

While many look forward to the warmth and happiness of the Christmas holiday, for some this holiday is hard. If you have suffered the loss of a relationship, a death, a job loss or some other sadness, you may be experiencing holiday blues. The holiday blues are actually much more common than people might think. Being a little depressed during the holidays happens to many people – whether they realize it or not. The Christmas holiday and other holidays can be overwhelming.

The best thing you can do is to make your expectations of the holiday realistic. If something tragic such as a loss has happened, then this Christmas is likely to be different. You may not feel like doing all of the same activities. While you don’t want to do nothing – you also shouldn’t push yourself into a holiday frenzy, forcing yourself to do everything for the sake of others. Being with other people can be very comforting. But forcing yourself to cook the perfect meal or create the perfect holiday creates a lot of excess stress.

Let yourself express your emotions about the holiday blues and Christmas. Whether you write in a journal, go for a run everyday or see a therapist – let your feelings out. Having these feelings is natural. It is important that you let yourself express your feelings in a positive and effective manner. Don’t overindulge in alcohol or other substances that aren’t good for you. Most importantly, if your feelings are too overwhelming see a therapist or a professional to talk things through.

Take good care of yourself during Christmas. Those who are vulnerable to stress often just don’t get enough basic care. Do the practical things that will help you feel better. This includes getting enough sleep, eat well and treat yourself gently. If you are dealing with the holiday blues, doing each of these things with conscious effort will make you feel much better and can greatly reduce your symptoms. This is a time when you may feel extra fragile and have trouble sleeping or be sleeping too much. You may have trouble eating or be eating too much. Make the effort to maintain good health and your body will absorb your holiday blues and stress reaction much better.

The holiday blues will not last. Know that the holiday blues are common and that they certainly don’t last forever. But you shouldn’t have to suffer by any amount. If you are concerned by how you feel – contact a professional if the holidays are too hard to bear. Make the holidays just a bit easier by being with people who make your heart smile. Spend time with people you love that make you feel good about yourself.