Don’t Let the Blues
Ruin Your Holidays

By Keli MacIntosh

I know the traditional Christmas colors are supposed to be red and green; but, for some people, varying shades of the blues can ruin their holidays. It is a well-known fact that the holidays can bring on major depression. At this time of year more people feel out of sorts, can’t seem to get rid of a lingering black cloud, and are often afraid to be alone. Even those actively participating in the hustle and bustle of the holidays can feel isolated and lonely.

I frequently find the days between Thanksgiving and New Years stressful, chaotic, and exhausting. Over the years I’ve learned that developing an “approach to the holidays” plan—and sticking to it—can help immensely. There are many things that can factor into depression and feeling out of control is one of them. Make sure you don’t schedule more than you can comfortably handle. Fatigue can distort your perception, leaving you feeling vulnerable. And racing from one activity to another can ruin anyone’s spirits.

Most often a holiday depression comes from unfulfilled expectations. Our “happily ever after” culture tells us that everything should work out fine. After all, don’t all the TV holiday specials manage to solve years of family discontent? Repeated exposure to these unrealistic stories leaves us emotionally unprepared to deal with our real life situations. People can feel shortchanged when they don’t have the fairy tale ending. And each happy salutation can make them feel even worse—why can’t they be enjoying the holiday spirit?

Years ago one of my favorite aunts commented that people would be much happier if they spent more time thinking of others. During the holidays is a good time to give this a try. Are you feeling sad that you haven’t been asked to a Christmas party? Have a party of your own and invite others who don’t have many social activities. Do you have no one to share your holiday dinner? Volunteer to help at a food pantry or church dinner. Sometimes seeing the lives of others less fortunate can help put things into perspective. Is your budget such that buying presents is out of the question? Try exchanging favors for gifts. This will encourage more social interaction. Do you know any young parents that could use an evening of free babysitting? Or a senior who could use some help with their Christmas shopping?

I know a widow who, after her husband’s death, dreaded spending her first Christmas alone. She had never had children so there was no family to join her. She decided to invite some college students who wouldn’t be able to go home for the holidays to share a meal with her. The first year she felt a little uncomfortable with the idea, but the students were thrilled to accept her invitation. The group spent the evening sharing family stories of past holidays. The last I heard these holiday dinners have become a tradition for students at the college. They gradually expanded the meals into potlucks—some students even spend the day helping to prepare favorite recipes. The woman often comments that she feels blessed to have a houseful of young people to share her holidays. The students have become an extended family and often stop by to visit, even after they have graduated.

So try spreading some holiday happiness of your own this year. The return on your investment will be well worth it.

May this holiday be a happy, blessed one!

Keli MacIntosh has over 35 years of experience in the medical field as a Registered Nurse. She is also a Certified Nutritional Consultant and regional manager of Natural Health Specialists. For a health consultation call Keli at 231.946.3872.