Now that the holiday season is in full swing with no signs of stopping, you can’t go anywhere without the festive signs of the year being thrown in your face. Everywhere you look, on television, in stores, and even driving down main street, there is no avoiding the holiday season. But some of us aren’t so amped for this time for year—I have a really good friend who suffers from the holiday blahs and she could care less about the holiday season. Signs of the holiday blahs can be anything from mild to severe depression, withdrawal from family and friends, sudden bursts of anger, and extreme moodiness. The holiday season isn’t always a joyful occasion for all of us.
You don’t have to let the holiday blahs take over you, though. There are coping mechanisms or ways to channel your sullen mood into something more positive. Here are 5 tips to help you overcome the holiday blahs:
Lower Your Stress Level
Holiday blahs could be a result of an increased stress level. Some of us get overwhelmed by massive amounts of stress, so the best thing to do when you begin to feel down is lower your stress level. Don’t allow yourself to take on too much at one time. Delegate when you can, and instead of striving for perfection during the holidays, relish in the holiday spirit of spending time with your loved ones. Relax, and make sure you take time out for yourself. A healthier you makes for a healthier family.
Write it Out
Sometimes, journaling or writing out your thoughts can be a much needed self-therapy. Purchase a journal or notebook to write down your feelings and purge those negative thoughts or feelings, or better yet, use your computer and blog or compose your thoughts in a Word document. You will be amazed at how releasing your feelings through writing can make you lighter and make you think clearer.
Lean on a Friend
We all have that one friend in our circle who can make everything all right when everything feels all wrong. Lean on a friend you trust and confide in them. Let them know your thoughts and your feelings—what is it about the holiday that is making you feel this way? Sometimes, the thoughts, opinions, and companionship from a friend could be just what the doctor ordered.
Calgon, Take Me Away
How about relaxing with a long bubble bath? Or investing in a spa treatment or massage? During the hustle and bustle of the holiday, it can become easy to lose focus on yourself in lieu of others. But I always say, “if mama isn’t happy, no one is happy”, and that is often true. We have to be good to ourselves so we can be good to others, and a massage or spa treatment could release some tension and frustration and make you feel better about yourself.
Hobby Anyone?
I know when I am stressed, I often immerse myself in my hobby (I write poems) and it is very much a stress reliever. Instead of ignoring your hobby during this holiday season in lieu of the preparation of family, friends, and the like, dive into your hobby and take time out of your day to do what you enjoy. It could make all the difference and help ease your holiday blahs.
If you are still feeling down and out after trying some of these tips, you may need to consult your physician or medical provider. Depression is a very serious condition, and if you are exhibiting feelings of sadness and despair that doesn’t go away after a short period, there may be a deeper issue. Consult your doctor and make them aware of your symptoms.
The holiday is supposed to be a joyful time for you and your family. Don’t let the holiday blahs interrupt your holiday season.
Photo Credit: Essence.com
Exercise may also help some people. It helps me, if I can just get to the gym. Great post!
Thanks for adding that as a way to beat holiday blahs. I for one need to workout more in the gym. LOL.
I’m not a big fan of the holidays… maybe ’cause I’m lonely and have noone in my life.. hehe, but I’m no Mister Scrooge. I always keep myself busy with professional goals, and self improvement. The holidays are a good time to make some extra money too if you want to take an extra job or 2.
Henway, I hope you have a wonderful holiday. Glad you are going to be staying busy during the holidays.
I would just add Focus on Someone Else. The best way to make a bad time better for yourself is to make something better for someone else.
“Lower Your Stress Level” I love this point, i often find myself very much disturbed during holidays because i myself have to do the planning stuff…I never asked help from any of my friends or relatives before,but surely am gonna ask someone with planning holidays..
James, the holidays are such a stressful time. I think we all must remember its not about how “perfect” every thing is, but its about spending time with the ones we love.
Nice tips. Thanks for sharing.