How Christmas Can Mess with Your Mental Health
Ah, Christmas, the season of warmth, joy, and twinkling lights. We've all seen the movies where everyone's gathered around a beautifully decorated tree, laughing, and sharing heartwarming moments. But guess what? Real life isn't always like that. For many, the Christmas holidays can stir up a bunch of not-so-joyful feelings. We're diving into the nitty-gritty of how Christmas can mess with your mental health and offering some real life tips on how to handle it.
Loneliness and Feeling Left Out
You know that feeling when everyone's posting Instagram-worthy family photos, and you're just chilling solo with your Netflix and a bag of chips? Yep, that's loneliness creeping in. Christmas is all about togetherness, and if you're estranged from your family or have lost loved ones, it can hit you hard.
How to cope:
Reach out to pals or find local support groups for some company.
Consider volunteering; it's a great way to connect with others and give back.
If it gets overwhelming, don't hesitate to talk to a pro. Some members of the Kindred Roots team are available for virtual or in-person sessions throughout the holidays.
The Money Woes
The pressure to buy lavish gifts, deck your house with a gazillion decorations, and whip up a fancy feast can turn your bank account into a war zone. Financial stress can lead to anxiety and feeling like you're just not keeping up.
How to cope:
Make a budget and stick to it. Prioritize what's most important.
Get creative with your gifts; homemade or thoughtful gestures can be even better than store-bought stuff.
Remember, it's not about the price tag; it's about the love you put into it.
The 'Perfect' Christmas Syndrome
We all know someone who goes all-out with their holiday plans, from the perfectly decorated tree to the Martha Stewart-worthy dinner. But trying to live up to that image can leave you feeling stressed, anxious, and like a total failure.
How to cope:
Set achievable expectations. Remember, no one's life is a Hallmark movie.
Focus on the moments that truly matter; it's the memories that count.
Show yourself some love and don't beat yourself up for not being a holiday perfectionist.
Winter Blues and SAD
The winter season can be a real buzzkill with its short, dark days. For some, it can trigger or worsen Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that shows up during certain seasons, often during winter.
How to cope:
If you suspect you have SAD, don't hesitate to seek professional help.
Get some sunlight; even a short walk can make a difference.
Consider light therapy, a treatment designed to kick SAD to the curb.
Family Drama
Let's be real; family gatherings during the holidays can be a minefield of arguments, unresolved issues, and awkward moments. It's like the perfect recipe for stress and emotional turmoil.
How to cope:
Set boundaries and communicate openly with your fam about what you need.
If things get too heated, it's okay to step away and take a breather.
Individual, couples or family counselling can be a game-changer for addressing those underlying problems.
Even if it’s too late for this year, make your new year’s goal to do the inner work so that next Christmas, you can approach the holidays with a healthy outlook, an intention, and some solid coping strategies.
Christmas might be a mixed bag when it comes to your mental health, but that's okay. You're not alone in feeling the holiday stress. The key is to recognize what's getting to you, reach out for support when needed, and take care of yourself. Remember, it's perfectly fine to seek professional help if you're struggling during the holidays. And most importantly, focus on creating a holiday experience that feels right for you, not what you think you should be doing. Your mental health deserves the gift of kindness and self-care this Christmas.