Any holiday season can bring joy or sadness depending upon your perspective & history. So, how do you avoid the “blues” this holiday. A few simple tips may help you turn this holiday into a good memory.
- Stay off of Facebook–this can be more depressing viewing what you feel you are missing out on.
- See support from friends (call or visit loving friends)
- Reframe your thinking to positive memories
- Create replacement rituals for new memories
- Invite new opportunities to volunteer and give of yourself during the holiday season.
Some people may actually think they have holiday blues but may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This condition occurs with the change of seasons, beginning in the fall staying with you throughout the cold, dark, rainy, cold, snowy winter months. Signs to look for include a drop in energy and mood swing. SAD is influenced by lack of sunlight, age, family history and where you live. One of the main recommended treatments is phototherapy, which is a form of light therapy designed to help your brain produce chemicals like serotonin, which is needed to feel healthier and happier. “Talk therapy”,especially CBT or Cognitive Behavior Therapy can help you identify negative thoughts, reframe them and teach you to learn to cope with stress and anxiety during the holidays. In addition, antidepressants have been found to be helpful to get your brain chemistry back in balance. You don’t have to suffer. Go for help!!!!
