CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (November 30, 2012) – The holidays are intended to be a time of happiness and joyful celebration with loved ones and friends - yet for many people, the holidays trigger feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety and loneliness. Farlie Chastain, LCSW at Parkridge Valley, discusses the reasons that many people feel overwhelmed from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day and offers ways for stressed and depressed individuals to improve the holiday season for themselves.
“There are many reasons that people can be stressed during the holidays,” says Chastain. “Many individuals focus intensely on creating a “perfect” holiday celebration for their loved ones, and put so much pressure on themselves that they can no longer enjoy many of the festivities they have planned. For others, trying to add holiday activities into already-packed schedules can be extremely stressful."
Sometimes, the problem lies in what cannot be done. "Those who are unable to spend time with friends and loved ones during the holidays may feel depressed or guilty,” notes Chastain. For others, the holiday season can provoke a tendency for overindulgence. “Overeating, drinking to excess, or spending too much money can all produce significant anxiety during the holidays."
To avoid a meltdown by mid-December, it is important to try to remember the following advice:
- Be realistic – make sure you are setting reasonable goals for yourself and don’t take on too much. "Don’t be afraid to say no – it’s better than over-committing and feeling overwhelmed later as a result," says Chastain.
- Create a budget for gifts and other holiday expenses and stick to it as much as possible.
- Don’t wait for the New Year – start and maintain healthy habits now. "Exercise and adequate rest will improve the holiday experience,” notes Chastain.
- Schedule downtime. Take some time for yourself when needed, and recruit family or friends to assist with the planning and execution of holiday festivities.
- Be flexible with traditions if necessary. “Don’t be afraid to adapt the traditional holiday events and celebrations - make something new that works for you," recommends Chastain.
- Get involved. Volunteer or participate in a community event or religious organization if you feel lonely or isolated. "Helping others can go a long way toward taking your mind off your own troubles."
- Cry if you want to. ”Give yourself permission to feel sadness and grief - these are normal emotions that don’t go away just because of the holiday season," notes Chastain.
- Seek help if you need it. "If you have persistent anxiety, irritability, trouble sleeping, or if you have low moods that last for several days, seek professional help," advises Chastain. "Parkridge Valley has a 24-hour RESPOND hotline staffed by medical professionals who can offer advise or refer you to a mental health provider who can perform a complete psychological evaluation."