Holiday depression is a common challenge that many people face each year. One of the primary triggers is a lack of connectedness to other people and feelings of social isolation. Another contributing factor is that the holidays are a reminder of loved ones that have died and are no longer able to be part of celebrations. This year, these factors are particularly intense because of the pandemic.
For most of us, the holiday traditions that we hold dear will have to change this year and the loss of that routine is difficult to accept. And for many, this will be the first set of holidays without loved ones whose lives were lost this year because of the virus.
Here are some of the things that you can do this year to help make this season more joyful and to lift some of the burdens you may be feeling as you think about the upcoming holidays:
- Stick to a routine – making space for practices in your life that bring you peace and joy in the midst of a chaotic season will help you to feel more grounded and avoid overwhelm
- Avoid Conflict – prepare yourself with neutral responses and avoid triggering conversations like politics
- Let go of expectations – just because you have always done something a certain way doesn’t mean you have to keep doing it that way, allow yourself the space to be open to new traditions and ways of doing things
- Let yourself grieve – the holidays often come with pressure to be perfect and to pretend like nothing is wrong. Instead of that, be your authentic self and mourn the things that have been lost this year so that you can work towards healing
We know that this year has been unlike any other. But we are in this together. If you need more support, please know that we are here. Our team of experts can help you navigate through this season. To schedule an appointment, please visit our website at www.smhwi.com or call us at 480.508.0882.