There has been a long-standing myth that suicide rates increase over the holiday season. According to the Mayo Clinic, this is completely false. What is true is that rates of depression and stress typically increase at this time of year. If Santa brings you the holiday blues, here are 10 tools to restore some emotional balance.
1. Keep your expectations within reason. You won't get everything you want, things will go wrong, and you won't feel like Bing Crosby singing "White Christmas." Remember, everything doesn't have to be perfect. And don't worry about things that are beyond your control.
2. Don't try to do too much. Fatigue, overscheduling and taking on too many tasks can dampen your spirits. Learn to say no, delegate as much as possible, and manage your time wisely. If you choose to do less, you will have more energy to enjoy your friends and family.
People are also reading... Napa teacher placed on leave again following 2022 Dixon incident 25 rescued Chihuahuas to find new homes, but not in Napa County Mayacamas Charter Middle School's test scores from first year prompts disappointment and tension at meeting Chicken Guy! scheduled to open Thursday in American Canyon Three arrested after robbery at Napa's Ulta Beauty store Battle drags on over day care center planned for Napa's Alta Heights area Update: No danger found after hazmat report near Napa High School, authorities say Be Bubbly Napa to close downtown Napa space, refocus business CIF State 5-A Football Championship: American Canyon runs past Palmdale 68-47 for title Saturday Napa Farmers Market canceled Man arrested on manslaughter, DUI allegations after fatal Napa County crash St. Helena's Flora Springs acquired by Gina and Jean-Charles Boisset Top 10 stories of 2024, No. 10: Napa native Brock Bowers makes NFL history as rookie Raiders star Three suspects in fatal Napa shootings plead not guilty Napa Open Golf: Sommerhauser's first payday a big one at Silverado Resort
3. Spend time with other people. If you live on your own or are feeling left out, then get out of the house and find some way to join in. There are hundreds of places you can go to hear music, enjoy the sights or help those less fortunate.
4. Don't overspend. Create a reasonable budget, and stick to it. Remember: It's less about the presents than your presence.
5. Allow yourself to mourn being separated from loved ones. It's OK to let yourself miss them. If you can't be with those you love this year, make plans to celebrate again when you can all be together.
6. Take measures to avoid seasonal affective disorder. Many people suffer depression due to a lack of sunlight because of shorter days and bad weather. Using a full-spectrum lamp for 20 minutes a day can lessen this type of depression.
7. Watch your diet, and remember to exercise. It's normal to eat more during the holidays, but be aware of how certain foods affect your mood. Eating a lot of fats and sweets can make you more stressed and run-down. It can be helpful to take a walk before or after a big holiday meal.
8. Be aware of the post-holiday syndrome. When all the hustle and bustle suddenly stops, getting back to the daily grind can be a letdown. Ease out of all the fun by planning a rest day toward the end of the season.
9. Plan ahead. Many people steer clear of the mall after Thanksgiving to avoid shopping stress. You can do much of your party prep in advance.
10. Learn forgiveness and acceptance. If some of your relatives have always acted out or made you feel bad, chances are their behavior won't change. But you don't have to let this push your buttons. If things get uncomfortable, go to a movie or for a drive and adjust your attitude.
May the holidays bring you love and joy, and may the true meaning of the season touch your heart.
Dr. Barton Goldsmith is a psychotherapist. Email him at [email protected].
Be the first to know
Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.