HOME

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and the most depressing. Tips to battle the holiday blues...


If you’re not feeling especially holly or jolly these days – you’re not alone...

Holiday stress and depression affect countless people each year and the Mayo Clinic has some tips to battle the blues:

1. Acknowledge your feelings. If someone close to you has recently died or you can't be with loved ones, it's normal to feel sadness and grief. Don’t try to force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.

2. Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out some social events you think you could handle. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities that could help to lift your spirits, enhance your sense of pupose and broaden your social circles.

3. Be realistic. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to – and be prepared to let a few go. 

4. Stick to a budget. Don't try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts. Keep it simple and remember the true meaning of Christmas, even if others don’t.

5. Learn to say no. Saying yes when you should say no will leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. True friends and decent colleagues will understand if you can't participate.

Above all else, seek professional help if you need it. If you’re feeling persistently sad, anxious or hopeless, tell your doctor. There are options that can help you through the holidays, and beyond.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Post your Wisdom