Addressing the Holiday Blues By Kerry Medeiros

People tend to feel sad or dissatisfied during the holidays, especially with the pressure to meet certain expectations. In order to ease some of these emotions, it is important that we all take the time to check in on our friends this holiday season. 

For many people, the holiday season is not the most wonderful time of the year. It is important that you are checking in on your friends even though everything appears to be merry and bright. People tend to feel sad or dissatisfied during the holidays, especially with the pressure to meet certain expectations. In order to ease some of these emotions, it is important that we all take the time to check in on our friends this holiday season. 

Knowing how to talk to a friend about how they’re doing can be tough. It is important to remember that anything is better than nothing. It’s as simple as,  “How have you been?” or “I’m here for you if you need anything.” Simple acts of kindness can bring someone’s day from bad to much better. You never know what you may learn about someone if you don’t take the time to check in on them. Sometimes, all people really need is someone to talk to. 

Based on research from the American Psychological Association, 38% of people surveyed said their stress increased during the holiday season. This stress can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. The rise of mental health issues can be caused by many reasons, such as a busy schedule, deadlines, the pressures of gift-giving, and especially, family gatherings. Pretending to have “holiday spirit” is exhausting. There is a great deal of pressure to be social and cheerful, which makes it extremely difficult for someone to admit they need help. Since asking for help is difficult, it’s easier for you, as a friend, to provide support for the people you care about. You never know what people are dealing with behind closed doors, especially during the holidays. One may seem alright even if something is going on deep down. People may feel like they have no way to express their emotions if they don’t have help from a friend. So, look out for each other. Make sure your friends are doing alright. It’s the right thing to do!