The holidays are traditionally associated with joy, love and fun activities. For many, however, this time of the year is marked by seasonal sadness, often called “the holiday blues.” This phenomenon usually affects seniors for a variety of reasons. Many people feel down because mobility issues keep them from participating in traditions, while others find themselves constantly reflecting on family and friends who have passed away. If you’re experiencing the holiday blues, use these tips to handle this sensitive season.
Stay social
When you’re feeling depressed, it can be tempting to shut yourself off from the world. Many seniors resort to this approach, ignoring holiday happenings and even declining celebratory invitations from friends and family. Keeping yourself lonely will only exacerbate your sadness, however, so push yourself to get out and spend time with others. Even if you can only commit to meeting a friend for coffee and a game of cards, being social will keep your mind occupied and make you feel better.
“Find somehow to be around people. Even if it is nothing more than going to the store and engaging with the cashier. The more time you spend home alone, the more time you will have to dwell on your loss and get caught up in sadness,” explained psychologist Mary K. O’Neill of the Franklin County Office on Aging.
If your holiday depression is associated with the loss of a loved one, talking about that person may help you cope. It can be difficult at first, but putting up holiday pictures of and telling seasonal stories about that person may actually help boost your mood, noted the American Medical Resource Institute.
Plan activities
If you foresee yourself becoming sad and isolated during the holidays, plan some activities a few weeks in advance. That way, you already have holiday-related events to look forward to. These don’t have to be complicated activities, just plans that will keep you busy and in the holiday spirit. The National Care Planning Council suggested scheduling times to do things like bake cookies, decorate your house or assisted living apartment, make crafts and watch movies. It’s also a good idea to research holiday events thrown by local associations, charities and religious organizations.
If you’re sad about not being able to participate in activities you once looked forward to during the holidays, ask friends and family members if they want to create new traditions with you. Shaking up your entire routine can often be helpful in crushing the holiday blues. Read here for additional tips on combatting the holiday blues.
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CHC