Tips To Avoid The Holiday Blues

Augusta, Ga. - Just because the song says, “’Tis the season to be jolly,” does not mean everyone will be. In fact, for some, the winter months and holiday season can be real stressors. But they don’t have to be.

Here are some suggestions for preventing the holiday blues:

- Be realistic about the holidays. Society may paint a picture that if you are not completely happy during the holidays you are alone and different than everyone else. But that is untrue.

- Don’t compare yourself to others. You’re likely to exaggerate their happiness and success.

- Realize that some days you may feel a bit down or stressed, and that this is ok and expected.

- Remind yourself that the holidays are about being with loved ones, friends and family.

- Don’t fall into a money pit, especially during these tough economic times. It’s not about how much you spend or buying the latest and greatest gadgets. Remember, it’s the thought that counts.

- Watch your diet, monitor your drinking and get plenty of exercise.

- Get plenty of sunlight. This time of year, the number of sunny hours decreases, and some adults experience the blues. Try going outside for lunch and other activities to soak up the sunshine.

- Prepare, prepare, prepare. This way you can avoid being alone and missing social gatherings that can cheer you.”

- Plan special days and activities with friends.

- Give to others. The greatest joys are found in giving, so help others who are less fortunate, by donating your time, skills or money.

- Don’t make unrealistic New Year’s resolutions. If you are already feeling the strain of the holidays, don’t add to it by setting goals that you know you won’t achieve. Instead, start small and slowly.

But what if your blues don’t go away? More than 20 million people in the United States experience a condition that is more than an “occasional down in the dumps” or “blue period.” If you notice that your blues are more frequent than the change of seasons or loss of daylight, you may have a mild form of depression.  Signs to watch for include:

- Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
- Sleep problems
- Decreased energy
- Feeling hopeless, worthless, guilty
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Anxiety
- Loss of appetite (or increased)
- Weight loss
- Decreased libido
- Sadness

Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. There are many treatment options to help you have more holly, jolly holidays ahead.