While most people find this time of year to be a happy time, many feel the opposite. As the season comes to its conclusion, many find themselves feeling more and more sad and lonely.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Southern Maryland has a few tips to help people through sad and lonely times.
Consider the following tips:
Celebrate the holidays in a way that is comfortable for you. Talk with family and friends about the stress you are feeling. Stay connected to family and friends who understand your illness. If you have been prescribed medications, take them as prescribed.
Keep expectations manageable – plan your work and work your plan. Try not to compare this season with past ones. Consider staying out of department stores. Play your favorite non-holiday music.
Set a budget and stick with it. Many things we can give do not cost money.
Do something nice for someone else. Call a friend or relative you haven’t spoken with in awhile.
Bring in the New Year in a way that is comfortable for you. Stay away from large parties if you feel celebration is false or forced. Try not to dwell on the negative. Try to reflect on positive thoughts from the past year and build on them.
The season does not banish reasons for feeling sad or lonely. It is important to remember that if you feel down, try not to feel too disappointed by that. There is a big difference between the holiday “image” and reality. Try reaching out to a friend or support group.
Open the shades and let the sun in. Get out of the house and breathe in the fresh air. At night, look at the stars.
Be “with the season” in a way that is comfortable for you. We wish you peace, now and always, and good health in 2009.