Do The Holidays Make You Blue?

Elvis sang “You’ll be doin’ all right, with your Christmas of white But I’ll have a blue, blue Christmas“.

Do the holidays make you blue and stressed?

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Does Christmas Make You Sad?

The months of November and December are some of the most magical months of the year. It’s a time of celebrations and food and fun!

But as magical as it can be, it can also be stressful and sad.

Depending on where you live,, many people have seasonal anxiety from lack of sunshine and outdoor time.

For me, is it also a feeling of loss. Both my parents and my father-in-law have passed away in the past few years and although I have wonderful memories of holiday celebrations with them, I really miss their presence.

How To Get Back To A Holly Jolly Christmas

When I was a kid, my Daddy had a Burl Ives album (you know, a vinyl record 🙂 ). It was a family music tradition and I still love the song. Music is one way to beat the blues, at Christmas or anytime.

Here’s a few other blues beating ideas:

Plan ahead

Create a list of things you want to do during the holidays. Keep in mind your available time and budget. I am a big list maker so making plans just comes naturally to me. I want everything on my planner so things don’t sneak up on me or overwhelm me.

Say no

Wow, this is hard to do, but sometimes you have to turn down an invitation. This goes along with planning ahead. Some activities such as your child or grandchild’s school or church program would probably make it higher on the list than your neighborhood social. I don’t like missing anything, but during these busy months, it’s the only way to survive..

Try to eat right

Another very hard one to accomplish! There is great food everywhere! Have you tried any of the home delivery food services?

There are many fresh food programs that ship to your house. This might be an option for you, especially if you are an empty nester. If not using a delivery program, be sure to use a meal plan to stay as healthy as possible. We often make bad food choices when having to make decisions last-minute.

Don’t totally skip the desserts and other holiday foods – just try to eat decent meals and don’t overdo it on the sweet and rich food.

Stay within your holiday budget!

If you don’t have a personal budget – do it now! Part of your budget needs to be a monthly allotment for Christmas and birthdays. We do that every month and then when it’s time to buy gifts, we have the money without using a credit card or taking from one budget category to another.

If you are not sure how to make a budget, I have several posts about budgeting and also some free printables about budgeting.

Try to avoid people that “Take A Dip Out Of Your Bucket”

I’m a Southern girl and I love that phrase! We fill our buckets with kindness to others and showing love. People that are mean or treat you badly can take a dip out of your bucket, leaving you will less love to give out. Don’t let them take a dip out of your bucket!

Stay away from people that upset you or stress you. Limit your time with the “friend” that is always needing you, but doesn’t really appreciate your advice or the relative that loves to argue. You may not be able to completely avoid these people, but don’t let them take a dip out of your bucket.

Make sure you have “Me Time”

Maybe you can get a massage or a pedicure. Get enough sleep. Read a book. Start using a journal. Go for coffee with your bestie. Take a walk. Drive around looking at Christmas decorations. If you have seasonal anxiety, you might try an artificial light source like this.

Shop online and avoid crowds

I am an Amazon-aholic and proud of it. I am a thrifty person and comparison shop. Amazon usually has the best price, quick shipping and great return policy.

Some people like shopping at the mall because of the festive atmosphere. I am too much of an introvert for the crowds. Do what make you feel best.

Most importantly, remember the reason for the season

Remember why you celebrate and the people you celebrate with. As a Christian, Christmas is a very holy time as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Also, consider that the holidays are often lonely for many people. If you know someone that has a hard time with the holidays, reach out to them and give the gift of friendship.

Do the holidays make you blue or stressed? #Christmas #Holidays #Sadness #ChristmasBlues #janetbpearson Share on X

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