Not everyone is happy during this season of joy, giving, and family. For many it is a time of loss, missing family members, disconnection and isolation. According to Psych Central, a blog, Holiday Blues are defined as temporary feelings of anxiety or depression during the holidays and though they differ from clinical anxiety or depression, they should be taken seriously as they can lead to long-term mental health conditions.

Tips for the Holidays

• Keep expectations low and balanced.
• Try to relax and get some sleep.
• Learn to say “no.” Saying “no” to them is saying “yes” to you. Stop saying “yes” with resentment.
• Try something new. Different food and if you can, connect with someone new.
• Volunteer at a shelter, donate food to a foodbank, feed the homeless.
• Don’t hang-on to past issues. Let it go! Learn to forgive. Understand in the journey of life we are going to have different experiences with people.

Family Relations

• When it comes to family members - set boundaries.
• “I respect your ideas but I disagree.”
• “You cannot speak to my spouse like that. Please stop because we like coming here.”
• “Please reframe from commenting on my life.”
• “You need to show more respect to my partner.”
• Prepare yourself and family members early. This holiday season will be different (Mom, Dad, Auntie) won’t be here.

Other Tips

• Don’t go broke over-spending on gifts. It was never about the money or gifts.
• Purchase a mug and coco mix. It’s the thought that counts.
• Try not to overeat or over indulge in alcoholic beverages and feel guilty afterward.
• Drink a lot of water before eating dinner. It will decrease your food intake.
• Once again, get involved in a charity and get some rest.