How to Beat the Holiday Blues
Most people have an idea of what the holiday season is "supposed" to look like. These ideas can come from movies, television shows, music, social media, family, friends, or our personal beliefs. However, when reality doesn't match the idealized fantasy, the result can often lead to the holiday blues. Think about it, haven't we all felt a bit of external or self-imposed pressure to live up to a picture-perfect holiday season?
Parents can feel anxious about not being able to give their children everything on their list. Single people can feel lonely about not having an intimate partner or children to spend time with during the holiday season. Children can feel sad if they aren't able to spend time with their parents or extended family due to their parents' separation. People can experience anxiety regarding financial limitations during the holidays. Someone can experience sadness or loneliness if they are geographically separated from loved ones due to military or work obligations. Individuals working to maintain sobriety could start to isolate during the holiday season to avoid being triggered at holiday parties. Many people also experience increased grief because they are reminded of loved ones who have transitioned. And the list goes on.
One way to beat the holiday blues is to create your own traditions. It’s okay to create your own rules when it comes to your holiday season experience. And, you will feel empowered when you do so! You don’t have to fit into the idealized image of what the holiday season “is supposed to” look like.
Be proactive and make a plan. Identify things that will cultivate joy. To get your creative juices flowing, here are a few ideas of things to do in Charlotte over the holidays:
Check out an ice skating rink
Visit any of the many local holiday markets
If Charlotte Christmas lights are your jam, visit your nearest candy cane lane. Charlotte Motor Speedway, Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, and many neighborhoods have holiday light displays.
Movies in the park
Take a cooking class
Travel
Staycation at a cute hotel
If none of these ideas strike your fancy, do your Googles or check out Eventbrite for local holiday events. And remember to connect with your support network. If the holiday blues begins to interfere with your daily functioning, reach out to a professional. If you are looking for depression treatment or an anxiety therapist Charlotte, NC visit my website to learn how to work with me.
