The Season of Light is what we call the holidays, but is that true for everyone? Yes, over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house we go, but what if you don’t go to grandma’s house? What if you don’t go to Uncle Joe’s house or anyone’s house for that matter? December can be a very long month if you are alone or you don’t have the money to celebrate. A friend may buy you a gift, but how can I buy them one? They may invite me to their home, but I can’t invite them because my home is a disaster. Maybe my father drinks or my mother is never home. The holidays may bring back memories of a loved one or even a better time in one’s life. It’s bad enough that the days grow dark early, but in my heart the days are always long and dark. A time of joy can be a time of stress, sadness, and loneliness. With the holiday season it is normal to feel stressful or even overwhelmed. It happens to the best of us, but if you are struggling with depression or loneliness all year long then this time of year only makes it worse. According to SAMHSA: Remember that it is okay to feel unhappy during the holidays. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them. Have a plan which may include calling a friend or family member, going for a walk, engaging in an activity that brings joy, or watching a favorite movie. If you can’t be near loved ones during the holidays, finding a supportive community through clubs, support groups, community centers, local meetups, and faith communities can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Having a plan ahead of time can help ensure the difficult moments are more manageable. It is important to schedule time for yourself and activities that recharge your mind and body. This may include reading a good book, working out, spending time in nature, and practicing stress management skills, such as deep breathing, and mindfulness. It is also important to remember to prioritize necessities, including eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of sleep, and finding time for exercise. For people in recovery, the holiday season presents challenges that can trigger the use of alcohol and drugs. Having a plan for navigating social events and feelings of loneliness, can reduce the risk of substance use. For family and friends, it is important to check in on those who may be struggling with substance use over the holidays. For people in recovery, the holiday season presents challenges that can trigger the use of alcohol and drugs. Having a plan for navigating social events and feelings of loneliness, can reduce the risk of substance use. For family and friends, it is important to check in on those who may be struggling with substance use over the holidays.
If you know someone who struggles during this time of year, then be a friend and help them through the season or even the winter. Isn’t that what the holidays are all about? Joy to the world can only come through each one helping the other.