Are you someone that dislikes the holiday season? I am!
I don't spend a lot of time with family due to them living in other states. Also, my beloved grandparents have passed away. I don't have my husband and little family that I was supposed to have by the time I turned 30. My son is an adult, so no kiddie holiday fun and surprises. No fun, family time for me! It's kinda boring! I dread holidays rolling around. I get moody, withdrawn, hard to concentrate on things.... like every year.
As I have gotten deeper into my Clinical Mental Health Counseling grad program, I have discovered that "seasonal depression" is real; and actually called Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons. It begins and ends at about the same times every year. Most people with SAD symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months (summer and spring SAD occurs also), zapping their energy and making them feel moody.
Signs and symptoms of SAD may include:
- Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Having low energy
- Having problems with sleeping
- Experiencing changes in your appetite or weight
- Feeling sluggish or agitated
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty
- Having frequent thoughts of death or suicide
How does the holiday season affect you? How are you feeling? Do you experience any of these symptoms?
I urge you to talk to someone! Reach out to a friend or family member. A therapist. If you are unsure how to locate a professional near you, www.psychologytoday.com is a great website to help you locate the perfect counselor for you!
Not ready to talk about it? Write!!! Journaling is very helpful in releasing your thoughts and feelings. Go for a walk and get some fresh air. Try a new activity!
I definitely journal. writing things down is very helpful! I take a drive. I may do a fun activity; yep, solo! I carry crystals specific to positive energy and uplifting my feelings. I burn my yerba santa smudge stick; it almost instantly shifts my energy!
The holiday season can be hard but don't let it take you down!
If you need additional assistance, please reach out to me itsenhergy@gmail.com ; I'll help in any way that I can. You are not alone! We'll get through this!
XoXo
Crysy