“Sitting silently beside a friend who is hurting may be the best gift we can give.” — Unknown
The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, but many people dread the festive season.
The stress and anxiety of the holiday season may cause even those who are usually content to experience loneliness and a lack of fulfillment.
And people who are lonely or have feelings of disconnectedness may choose to avoid social interactions and withdraw during the holiday season.
This time of year can be especially tough for people who have experienced a significant loss or a break-up.
I remember meeting two sisters who both lost their husband the same year around Christmas time. And even though it was many years ago and they both remarried, they still dread the Christmas season.
Stress and fatigue, unrealistic expectations, financial pressures, social media images of smiling families and friends and family dysfunction may also contribute to holiday sadness and loneliness.
Whatever your struggle is during the holidays, here are a few Holiday Bill of Rights by Mental Health America
You have the right to…
- Take care of yourself.
- Feel mixed up emotions around the holidays.
- Spend time alone thinking, reflecting and relaxing.
- Say “no” to party invitations.
- Ask for help and support from family, friends and community service agencies.
- Say “no” to alcohol, drugs…and seconds on dessert.
- NOT ride with a drunk driver, to take their keys away and to call a taxi for them.
- Give gifts that are within your holiday budget.
- Smile at angry sales people and/or rude drivers and give them a peace of your mind.
- Enjoy your holiday the way you want.
In addition….
Always remind yourself of the things that you can be grateful for. There’s always something stressful in life but there’s always something to appreciate.
Gratitude helps us take our eyes off ourselves and open our eyes to opportunities to reach out to others who may be struggling with sadness or loneliness.
“The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope.” ― Barack Obama
Until next time…..
Have a great week!
I look forward to hearing from you!!
From the heart of a nurse….
Althea
If you found value, please feel free to share!!!
P.S. Many of you know that I’m a nurse, but did you also know that I have a side hustle? Check out these links…. Fix Your Credit and Earn Extra Income. My goal is to connect people, ideas and resources so that your life is better because I helped you make the right connection!!
#WalkGood #HeartofaNurse
