Happy Holidays from Just Talk Therapy SV, mental health providers in Silicon Valley (www.justtalktherapysv.com) !
The holidays are most often seen as a time for joy, giving and celebrating. We put up lights and decorate trees, buy gifts for our loved ones and look forward to gathering with friends and family. This is all wonderful and definitely worth celebrating.
However, there is also another side to the holidays that many of us experience that doesn’t get talked about quite as much. And that is all the stress, ambivalence and sometimes loneliness and sadness the holidays can bring.
Some of us don’t have big families to celebrate with. Some of us don’t have the funds to buy the gifts our loved ones are wishing for. And for some of us, the change in routine and expectations leaves us feeling out of sorts and disconnected. The holidays can also remind us of people we miss who are no longer here to celebrate with us.
Some suggestions for combating the holiday blues include:
Have a heart-to-heart with a friend.
Limit alcohol intake.
Stick to your normal routine as much as you can.
Set a realistic budget and then stick to it.
Set realistic goals and expectations.
Make sure to enjoy some time to yourself each day
Don’t be afraid to say no. Don’t go to parties when you don’t really have time. Don’t take on events that will crowd your time. Don’t overextend yourself. Don't spend time around people who add to your stress.
Enjoy free holiday activities.
Try to celebrate the holidays in a new and different way.*
If you, or someone you know is struggling, please feel free to reach out. We at Just Talk Therapy are here to help and we are accepting new clients.
We hope you are able to make the most of the holiday season while also taking care of yourself!
Warmly,
Darin Conway, LCSW, PPSC
Just Talk Therapy, SV
650-336-8033
*Reference: University of Rochester Medical Center
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