Jackson Hospital | Partners | Winter 2019

6 ways to beat the HOLIDAY BLUES 14 Jackson Hospital Many people love the holidays and can’t wait for them to get here. But not ev- eryone eagerly awaits the merry season—in fact, plenty of people wish they could just ignore the holidays altogether. Do you feel that way? If so, you may have a good reason for your dampened spirits. For instance, you might be missing a loved one, going through a divorce or strug- gling to pay the bills, let alone buy gifts. What to do when you don’t feel jolly If you’re less than excited about the holidays, these tips from Mental Health America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness may help: 1. Scale back expectations. The pres- sure to be happy can make stress seem even worse. But you don’t have to at- tend the parties, deck the halls or send holiday cards. 2. Stay connected. Don’t feel up to celebrating? You don’t have to. But you shouldn’t be alone if you would like some company. If you can’t be with family or close friends, try getting together with co-workers or neighbors. Or volunteer at a homeless shelter that serves holiday meals. 3. Set a budget, and stick to it. If you can’t afford to buy presents for everyone, consider making some gifts—perhaps a delicious dessert or a collection of soup ingredients in a jar. Strolling through your neighborhood looking at holiday lights is free entertainment. 4. Don’t abandon healthy habits. Ex- ercise can help lift your spirits. Try to get plenty of sleep too. And don’t drink alcohol to cope. If you feel like doing that, tell your doctor. 5. Remember a loved one in your own way. Are you missing a loved one who is no longer with you? Honoring their memory may help. For example, you might carry on a tradition that your loved one started or make a charitable donation in that person’s name. 6. Cut the quarrels. Are you dreading attending a holiday dinner or gathering because of family arguments? This year if a quarrel starts, give yourself permis- sion to simply leave the room until everyone cools off.