Holiday Blues

You might think that only people who spend the holidays alone are susceptible to holiday depression. That’s not the case. Depression doesn’t really care if you’re alone or surrounded by loved ones. Depression and anxiety can hit hard during the holidays. There plenty of factors around this time of year to push your mind to its limits.

First off, it’s cold

Seasonal depression is real! Lack of warmth and sun can cause any flower to wilt. So make sure you get your daily dose of vitamin D through your diet. Also, if the sun is shining, bundle up and get outside for a few minutes. This will help boost your mood.

Spending money

It’s true that some folks love to spend money, but there’s usually a pang of guilt in doing so. Especially, if it was a frivolous purchase. Other people feel a lot of pressure when spending money around the holiday season. Do they have enough money for presents? Is it a good enough present? How can I afford that? For parents, the largest concern is, I want to make sure they have a great Christmas… All of these thoughts put unnecessary pressure on yourself. Anxiety heightens, and that’s when depression can also slip into the party. Take the pressure off. Put a cap on your budget. Ask your kids if they could only have one thing, what would it be? This allows you to find out where their priorities lie. With friends and relatives, suggest a white elephant exchange or a Pollyanna. And do you still feel like you need to get something for everyone? Do a cookie bake or make homemade bath bombs and scrubs. Homemade gifts are always treasured.

Family drama, not made for TV

During holidays, lots of family drama can surface. It May sound too simple, but shake it off. Who cares that aunt so-n-so doesn’t think that’s a proper desert for the holiday dinner or grandparents think you’re in the wrong line of work? If you’re spending the holidays with them, the only answer should be you love them. Love them for who they are, even if you feel they can’t love you for who you are. If you can’t, then you should consider who you are spending your time with. This is the time of year to spend with LOVED ones.

It’s the end of the year and you still haven’t accomplished that

Every year, millions, if not billions, make New Year resolutions for their life. 12 months later, they didn’t accomplish what they set out to do. Take the pressure off yourself and try a five-year plan instead. Having goals is important. But having deadlines can cause anxiety. Give yourself a break. And remember, if it’s part of your destiny, you’ll eventually get there.

Which brings me to my final point, …Therapy

This is the time of year for giving, more than receiving. Therapy comes in many forms. So if depression hits, try volunteering your time. Donate gifts, food or clothing to the less fortunate. Helping others can pull you out of your own depression.

Mental health is important all year round. But there’s certain times throughout the year, the mind can be tested. We miss loved ones or ended-relationships during certain periods of life. Around the holidays, we are reminded this is a time to be spent with loved ones. And it’s alright to miss them, but we must remember to celebrate these times as well. If you can’t shake the blues or you feel them coming on perhaps it’s best to talk with a therapist. Remember, there are people that can help if you need to talk. If you or someone you know is suffering with depression this holiday season, remember, you are not alone, please seek help.

Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season!

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.