By Shawnmari Kaiser, LISW, LCSW
The holiday season for most people is a fun time of the year filled with parties, celebrations, and social gatherings with family and friends. For many people, it is a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness, and anxiety.
Remember the purpose of the season. It is the celebration of the birth of the Christ child Jesus. God who came to earth in human form to give the joyful message of love that we can be reconciled to Father God, Creator of all. Take time to read the message of His birth in the first chapters of the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John and be filled with hope and comfort that no matter what this season brings, you are deeply loved and cared about by The Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit).
Other tips for coping with holiday stress and depression:
- Set realistic goals for yourself.
- Pace yourself. Do not take on more responsibilities than you can handle.
- Make a list and check it twice to make tasks more manageable.
- Live and enjoy the present finding small special moments of joy.
- Look to the future with optimism.
- If you are lonely, try volunteering some time to help others.
- Find holiday activities that are free.
- Create a new tradition. Celebrate the holidays in a new way..
- Make time for yourself to read about God’s love for you and to talk to Him!
Comments are closed