Holiday Blues? Here’s 10 Ways Louisiana Residents Can Find Joy This Season

The holidays are here and though this is supposed to be a season of cheer and joy, it's not the happiest time of year for everyone. Holiday depression can stem from numerous causes according to LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Rahn Bailey. Louisiana residents have been through a lot in the last 4 years with the COVID pandemic, massive destruction of hurricanes, and the loss of loved ones caused by those tragic events.

For the past two years state and national politics have taken an emotional toll on Louisiana residents who are adjusting to a new Governor and recent results of the 2024 Presidential Election. Life has been anything but normal. The stress of navigating the landmines of social conflicts, avoiding inflamed animosity in the public, and overcoming hostile environments at home, school, and work have gotten worse.

This holiday season only presents an extra burden of trying to cope with this thing called life. Verywellmind.com has some helpful tips to get you through the Holiday Blues and ease the stress. Even though it's tempting, try to avoid “canceling” the holidays. It's important to know that seasonal depression is more common than you may think.

Overcomewithus.com has great tips to help anyone struggling to overcome anxiety. Seeking professional help from a therapist used to be taboo, but living in today's world has proven to be extremely beneficial. After all, having the tools and support to work through the pressures life throws at you is a good thing.

CBS reports an August 2024 survey including 3,300 Americans (18 and older) 69% of adults are stressed out from recent elections. You are not alone says Chaitali Sinha, psychologist, and chief clinical research and development officer at mental health app Wysa, in a recent interview with CBS News. Dr.Sinha said. a great way to get immediate relief is to use happy, healthy distractions such as spending less time on social media and more time

"Engaging in self-care activities, such as spending time outdoors, exercising or connecting with supportive friends can offer relief and a break from the stress."

HERE ARE 10 WAYS TO AVOID THE BLUES THIS HOLIDAY

1.) Try talking to a therapist or a friend. There's nothing wrong with asking for help.

2.) Get out of the house and attend a free local holiday event. Take a drive and look at holiday decorations, or take a walk and go window shopping (without shopping.)

3.) Take a break from social media. Many times this is the source of stress and anxiety.

4.) Limit drinking as alcohol increases feelings of depression

5.) Try something new or start a new tradition.

6.) There's no right or wrong way to celebrate the holidays. Give yourself a break.

7.) Find a prayer partner or learn how to meditate. Breathing techniques are proven to relieve stress.

8.) Allow yourself to rest, make sure you are getting enough sleep.

9.) Volunteer or do something charitable like serving food at a local shelter.

10.) Surround yourself with people who love and support you.

If you’re dealing with feelings of stress or depression, you aren’t alone. There are a variety of ways to manage your feelings and get the help you need.

Mental health specialists advise that folks trying to cope with grief and the first holiday without a loved one get support from others. Support groups can make a difference. Watching others celebrate can be painful when memories of loss are still new.

However, thoughts of making new holiday traditions can serve as a light in times of sadness. Memories of those who've passed away can be celebrated and make family gatherings even more precious than before. Vitas Healthcare has a few coping tips to help you manage the holiday blues.