Help for Holiday Blues

Help for Holiday Blues

Holidays can sometimes make people feel sad and lonesome. It may be the first holiday after a divorce or death or someone living alone who wants to return to the picture perfect holidays of the past. The following suggestions may help alleviate some of the holiday blues:

1. Focus on the present and think positively. Do what you enjoy. This will help reduce frustration and unhappiness and build confidence to live in the spirit of the season.
2. Be involved with activities and other people. Avoid being alone - go to church or a senior center or other community places. If you lack transportation, call OATS or neighbors and friends for a ride. Invite people to your home and celebrate.
3. Be willing to ask for help. If you are homebound - you may want to call people to just talk.
4. Helping others can help you feel good about yourself. Consider taking elderly people to shop, make a meal or bake cookies. This will help you feel the holiday is more meaningful.

Resource: The Family Connection newsletter, Nov/Dec 1997, Dr. Nina Chen, University of Missouri-Columbia


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