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Holiday Blues

A wellness guide featuring self-care tips for managing holiday stress, including an illustration of a woman receiving a relaxing massage.
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The Holiday Season is a time of joy and merriment. Most of us look forward to these special days of the year. It’s the end of the year, and we ought to celebrate the fruits of our labor and share it with ones we hold dear. These blues can be especially overwhelming during a time of change. Christmas and New Year’s Eve often present challenging demands.

Couple looking at window at snowfall on street

But why is it that during the holiday season, some people develop anxiety and sadness? Why is it that a joyous occasion such as Christmas and New Year bring about sadness and a sense of uneasiness? Several reasons could be thought of. This may be brought about by the anticipation of this once-a-year much-awaited season, long preparations for the festivities, choosing special gifts for loved ones, attending numerous parties right and left, and planning how to celebrate this.

On the other hand, the merrymaking may remind us of the loss of a loved one, especially when this happened during this season. The season may also remind us of bad memories of the season, hence it becomes a reason to feel depressed or anxious. Not being able to go home to your loved ones can trigger holiday blues. Going through personal circumstances like financial constraints is another one. When someone is going through rough times, it is difficult to see others celebrate.

All these may cause pressure. Though we may not consider it stressful, in truth, it is.

How does holiday blues present?

The most common symptom of the holiday blues is amplified depression. This is true of people who may or may not be dealing with depression already.

People with holiday blues may experience tiredness more than usual. They may feel tense and have difficulty relaxing. With all the hustle and bustle, they easily feel frustrated. They become more irritable than before. Their patience runs short. Instead of excitement, they feel sad and lonely.

Flat office woman at work with high and low energy level

What to do to manage holiday blues?

The following are practical tips on how to address holiday blues:

1. Take time off.

Make sure you are okay. Make time for yourself. “Me-time” is important. Engage in self-care activities. A simple massage or going to the spa can make a difference.

Illustration of a woman relaxing at a spa with a candle, symbolizing wellness and self-care.

2. But don’t isolate yourself.

Taking time off does not mean you distance yourself from others. These two things are different. You can also verbalize what you are feeling with someone you trust.

Illustration of a man and woman having a professional discussion while seated in modern chairs.

3. Get plenty of sleep.

Sleeping regenerates the mind and the body, so you should not deprive yourself of it.

Illustration of a person sleeping peacefully with an alarm clock beside them, symbolizing rest and well-being.

4. Avoid alcohol.

Though alcohol may soothe you temporarily, it does not benefit you in the long run, especially if you are under stress. Besides, when did alcohol ever provide any real good for the body?

No alcohol symbol with a bottle and glass crossed out in red, indicating prohibition or restriction.

5. Learn to say no.

Attending all the revelries may not be a good idea. Overscheduling will surely lead to a stressful situation. You can only do so much.

3D humanoid figures holding a "NO" sign, symbolizing refusal, boundaries, and decision-making.

6. Double-check your holiday expectations.

Be realistic with your expectations. Not everything you see on social media is the real one—it could be a staged photo op. You don’t need to live up to any expectation for the holidays! Get real.

Text design of the word "REALITY" with a distorted reflection effect, symbolizing illusion and altered perception.

7. Pray.

Communing with a Higher Being does wonders. Never underestimate the power of prayer.

Illustration of a family praying together, symbolizing faith, emotional support, and healing in healthcare.

Remember that the holiday blues are short-term, and if you feel like it’s something you’re going through, that’s okay! Find the support you need and take things one at a time.

Now, if you’re still feeling extremely sad after the holidays are over, you may be dealing with more than just a case of the holiday blues. You should seek help from your doctor. They can help you determine the cause and address the symptoms.

REFERENCES:

1. Foundry. (2023, November 29). What Are The Holiday Blues? – Foundry. 
https://foundrybc.ca/stories/what-are-the-holiday-blues/

2. Purdie, J. (2019, December 13). How To Deal With Stress and Depression During the Holidays. Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/health/

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