Holiday Blues

Do you have the Holiday Blues? There are many reasons someone can have feelings of depression during the winter holiday.  According to PubMed Central, 14 percent of Americans experience the Holiday Blues, so you are not alone. Some of those reasons can be not being able to be with your family and friends for the Holidays, or the loss of a loved one who has passed. Maybe experiencing financial hardship during the holidays. There could also be other reasons for the blues such as shorter daylight hours, or colder temperatures, and spending less time outside in the sun. Symptoms include feeling tired, loss of interest in activities that usually bring you joy and difficulty concentrating.

Tips for Beating the Holiday Blues:

1. Limit the number of holiday gatherings you attend. It’s okay to say ‘no’ to some events you are invited to. Overscheduling can lead to feeling or experiencing an emotional breakdown.

2. Get plenty of sleep. Trying to fall asleep at the same time every night. Getting a good night’s rest can help you be in a good mood the next day.

3. Exercise regularly. A ten-minute walk 3 times a day can really improve your mood. Also listening to music or an uplifting podcast can make those walks even more fun. A ten-minute walk can release mood-improving endorphins.

4. Spend time with people who bring you joy. During COVID-19 restriction and usual winter colds, this can be hard, however, a facetime or Zoom call with someone who you love and enjoy being around can really improve your wellbeing and mood.

5. Ask for support if you need it. It’s okay to talk to someone if you are feeling the Holiday Blues. Talk to a friend or loved one you trust or seek out a professional mental health practitioner.

If you are experiencing the Holiday Blues and need someone to talk to feel free to contact our Alegria Family Counseling Clinic at 575-652-3448 or visit our website at https://aitkids.com/alegria/  Alegria is currently providing in-person and telehealth visits.