Are you known as “Mr. Grinch” or “Scrooge” during the holidays? Around 60 percent of people experience more stress during the holiday season, so you aren’t alone. Anxiety and depression are serious conditions that often flourish during the colder months. Understand the reasons why you may feel this way and work to resolve your winter blues through simple, yet effective, practices.
If you’re feeling depressed or experiencing abnormal behavior or thoughts, always reach out to a medical professional for help. [National Suicide Hotline: 888-273-TALK (8255) or http://www.crisischat.org/]
1. You compare yourself to others.
Whether it’s your friend’s picture-perfect Christmas tree or Pinterest-planned Thanksgiving dinner, your friends and family always seem to have a “better” holiday season than you. By comparing your holiday bliss to others, you may be crushing your self-image and happiness.
Resolution: Try to put down the phone and avoid social media -- out of sight, out of mind. Appreciate the food, gifts, time and moments you have with friends and family without the temptation to “one-up” someone else on Facebook.
2. You’re lonely.
Missing a passed loved one? Miles away from home? There are many reasons why people may feel lonely, especially if you feel like a part of you is missing.
Resolution: Remind yourself that you are not completely alone, and the holiday season should celebrate the now rather than harsh memories of the past. Seek new company, whether it's a distant neighbor or someone from your workout class, to spend time with during the holidays. Ask them to grab a coffee or go gift shopping with you -- anything to get out of the house [and out of your head!].
3. You try to handle things out of your control.
Yes, your family may fight and scream. Yes, the grocery store may run out of stuffing. Many things happen out of your control, so don’t try to control them! Accept the frustrating aspects of life and seek the positive moments.
Resolution: Spin every uncontrollable mistake or mishap into a good memory. You won’t remember your feelings as much as the special time you spend with others. Foster positive ideas from the brightest moments of your holiday season.
4. You have money problems.
People spend around $800-900 on gifts every year -- including over $100 for themselves! If you’re on a tight budget, expensive electronics and fashionable clothes may be out of the picture [or you’ll rack up some major, and regrettable, debt].
Resolution: Instead of purchasing tons of gifts in a span of two months, begin purchasing gifts months in advance to snag the best deals. You won’t shock your bank account, over-spend or purchase unnecessary products. Also, put your money into moments and memories rather than gifts. Put your well-earned money into a nice meal or fun concert -- you can’t lose an experience.
5. You’re not eating right.
The holidays are full of big meals and sugary sweets. A treat or two won’t kill you, but five cupcakes and seven servings of mashed potatoes may leave you stuffed and sick. Sugary foods may spike your energy, but you’ll feel drained and exhausted after. A pound or two of weight gain doesn’t seem like a problem, but most people never lose the weight after the holidays.
Resolution: Practice healthy portion sizes to avoid overeating while eating mostly nutritious foods at every meal. Jo-Ann Jolly, a registered dietician, told Time Magazine, “Definitely allow yourself a treat once or twice a week, but listen to your hunger cues and practice mindful portioning to avoid holiday binges.” Also, take time to move around! We feel forced to stay inside when it’s cold out, but the fresh, open air may be what your body needs to feel better.
6. You’re drinking too much alcohol.
Alcohol is often drunk during the holidays to celebrate family, friends, opportunities and the new year. People may drink alcohol to alleviate negative feelings, like depression or loneliness, but it only covers the problem. Alcohol is a depressant drug, so it can interfere with your central nervous system which “numbs” feelings, messes with your sleep schedule and creates overwhelming anxiety.
Resolution: Drink in moderation or don’t drink at all! You can cut out the temptation, find an alcohol-free option or practice responsible drinking habits. You don’t have to be alone -- seek out a friend who can tackle a sober holiday party with you!
Have a happy and healthy holiday!