​What to Do about the Holiday Blues?
 
Cheerful holiday commercials and the movies shown from November through January depict unbroken families with expensive, in beautifully-decorated homes. No rent due, no health problems, no cranky uncles or unappreciative grandchildren. Reality can be very different, and the "holiday blues" may make some feel sad, anxious and over-stressed.
 
Some of the causes of holiday blues are:

• Loneliness and missing departed loved ones.
• Stress of large family gatherings and travel
• Shopping and trying to please everyone
• Overspending

 
Some of the symptoms to watch for:

• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
• Difficulty concentrating or paying attention

• Changes in appetite or weight
• Changes in sleep patterns

 
What can be done about holiday blues?

• Acknowledge feelings of grief and loss
• Spend time with good listeners, friends or professional

• Eat healthy meals, cut back on alcohol, get some fresh air 
• Try to maintain a regular sleep pattern
• Start a journal of feelings
• Set a gift budget and keep to it
• Skip gatherings that cause stress
• Try something different, a new hobby or interest group

 
The "holiday blues" can lead to greater depression, so there is no shame in talking to a professional or medical caregiver, even if symptoms seem mild now. Isolation contributes to seasonal depression, so seek out a friend, a group, or a free community activity that will keep you in touch with others during the holiday season.
 
Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264