For most people winter and the holiday season are a time of joy and excitement. Time with family and friends brings feelings of comfort and contentment. While this time of the year is mostly met with feelings of happiness and peace, for some it can be a time of anxiety and depression.
This time of the year can be hard for many people for a whole host of reasons. Money troubles, family issues, or the loss of a loved one during the year are all reasons that this season can sit heavily on the hearts of many. For some it is merely the changes in the seasons that bring on these feelings. Some refer to it as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. According to the Mayo Clinic, SAD is a type of depression related to changes in seasons. It can begin around the same time each year, typically in the fall, and can continue through the winter months.
Some symptoms of SAD include:
Feeling depressed most of the day-every day
Loss of interest in favorite activities
Low energy
Trouble sleeping
Difficulty concentrating
Oversleeping
Weight gain
Although the exact cause of SAD is unknown, many believe a large contributing factor is the reduced amount of sunlight during the fall and winter months. This lack of sunlight can disrupt your internal clock, serotonin and melatonin levels, making it difficult to sleep and causing lack of energy.
If you find yourself feeling down this winter/holiday season, there are steps you can take to get your smile back!
Say NO!
Such a small word, but often the most difficult to say. The holiday season can be an especially difficult time to say “no” to requests and commitments. If you find that you are constantly running from one place to another or have more on your plate than you can handle, give yourself permission to say no. Little Johnny’s class needs two dozen snowflake cookies by tomorrow? Nope, sorry, can’t help. Sally’s dance teacher needs 10 gingerbread costumes sewn by next week? Nope, sorry, can’t help. It’s ok to say no and to prioritize your well-being above the needs of others.
Get Out of the House
It is very tempting during the fall and winter months to just hibernate in the comfort of your warm, cozy house. Hey, it’s good enough for the bears isn’t it? But unlike the mighty grizzly, people need sunlight and fresh air throughout the year to feel their best. So, as tempting as it is to curl up with the newest Nicholas Sparks novel or Lifetime Movie Marathon, get up and get out.
Apex is full of great nature parks and walking trails that are beautiful this time of year. Check out the Apex Nature Park or the Apex Park Trail with a friend or by yourself. Pop in your earbuds and listen to your favorite podcast or audio book, or play your favorite tunes loud and proud. Use this time to escape from the stressors of everyday life and focus on yourself and the beauty around you.
Set a Budget
One of the greatest stressors during this time of year can be money. Let’s face it, the prices of “this year’s most popular toys” aren’t going down. One way to combat the stress of expenses is to set a budget early in the year, and stick to it. Try making a list of all those you shop for during the holidays and set a budget for each. Keep in mind you still have your everyday expenses even though you are decking the halls. Having a plan in play early in the year can relieve some of the stress of wondering where the money is going to come from.
Help Others
Loneliness can be overwhelming for many during the holidays. Those whose families are far apart or have suffered a loss during the year can be hardest hit. If you know of someone who is going to be alone during the holidays and you have an open seat at the table, invite them over or offer to come and sit with them for a while. Don’t be offended if they reject your offer. For many it is a feeling of intruding on someone else’s family time, or being a burden. Let them know that you genuinely want them to be a part of your celebration.
If you are someone who, for whatever reason, may be faced with spending some part of a holiday alone, try reaching out to organizations that could use your help. Hospitals, nursing homes, retirement homes and shelters are all great places to start. What better way to chase your blues away than helping others who are in need.
Take time this winter and this holiday season to take care of yourself. The turkey will get cooked and the gifts will get wrapped, and if they don’t…that’s ok too! Use this time to focus on what is most important to you, everything else can wait.
