The famous folk song goes, “Deck the halls with boughs of holly—Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la ”Tis the season to be jolly. Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la”
It’s the holiday season, but not everyone is feeling jolly. For many, the holidays can be challenging, marked by sadness, loneliness, and depression. The holidays may remind us of loved ones who are no longer with us, or they may bring on financial stress and Christmas anxiety as we try to meet the expectations of family and friends.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, angry, frustrated, depressed, or anxious, you’re not alone. Nearly 17% of Australians suffer from some form of anxiety, and if you struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders, you may be especially vulnerable to the “holiday blues.”
But there is hope. It’s important to recognize and acknowledge these difficult and unpleasant emotions. Ignoring or avoiding them will only make them worse. Instead, make space for these emotions and allow them to be there. Doing so, you can start to heal and find joy this holiday season.
Tips for Managing Holiday Season Depression and Anxiety
First, it is important to acknowledge those feelings, as unpleasant as they might be. Entering into a tug-of-war with them can only worsen things (and I beg you have tried and failed before). They, as all the emotions. Stay as long as they please, and the more we try not to think about it or avoid the unpleasant sensation, the more they stay and impose their presence on us.
Making space for unpleasant emotions and feelings does not mean renouncing to do things that can help us. And the first step is to see that it’s okay to take a break from the holiday festivities. Taking time to relax and recharge can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Second, remember that although in our imagination, we dream of the perfect holiday. It is just that our vision and the holidays can be imperfect.
Finally, make time for yourself. Taking time to do something you enjoy, such as reading a book or taking a walk, learning something new or doing yoga (if that is something you may enjoy) or learning a new breathing technique, wince breathing is the best way to make space for our emotions.
Essential tools for holiday season depression
You can also reach out to friends and family and connect with people who care about you. If you do not have family or friends (and I understand that I have migrated several times in my life), see this as an excellent opportunity to meet new people. During the holiday season, many initiatives focus on connecting people who may be without family during this time. Try to explore such resources through a Goole search.
You can also get active: walking, going to the gym or swimming at the beach in the morning can help you beware of the beauty and resources around you.
Volunteering is also a great way to use your time during the holiday and helps to create connections and feel that you have a purpose. During this holiday season, there are many opportunities to be there for yourself by being there for others.
Also, remember, avoiding alcohol or reducing it is intake is one of the best things you can do. Alcohol affects your mood, and even if temporary may let you feel better, it is a depressant. If you wish to have a drink, do so as part of a ritual of awareness: enjoy that drink, savour the taste, smell it and take your time. You are drinking because you want to enjoy it, not because you have no choice. Substitute that alcoholic drink with something else you can appreciate and enjoy with awareness.
If you are struggling with anxiety and depression and nothing work time to seek support
If, despite these solutions and attempts, you notice
1. Loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy
2. Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness
3. Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
4. Difficulty concentrating
5. Withdrawal from family and friends
6. Loss of energy
9. Thoughts of death or suicide
It is time to discuss the matter with your general Practitioner and maybe seek counselling.
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that can help you accept your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment and take actions that align with your values and goals.
At Act Right Now Counselling Services, we are here to support you, even during the holiday season. So if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to us and start feeling better today.
