Announcements
Tips to Beat the Holiday Blues
By Tamara Knapp-Grosz, Ph.D., and Don Musick, MA, CACII, CCS
Students often mention that they wish the holiday season was already over
and done with. They also report high levels of stress related to
Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa. Considering the amount of
travel and expenses involved, anxiety at this time of year is not uncommon.
There are also those who do not have a family to visit. Others do have a
family, but do not have the money to travel and buy gifts. Unfortunately,
some do not want to visit their relatives or have to choose which set of
relatives with whom they will spend time.
Television is constantly selling an image of the perfect time for presents,
relationships, and food. Don't buy it. During the holidays, we tend to view
everyone else as having more fun than we are. The truth is, the holidays are
not perfect for anyone. If a significant other was a pain in the neck in
October, that person will still be a pain in the neck in December. Recognize
that it is a tough time of the year and there will be stress. We need to
know what to expect and realize that our feelings are OK.
Don't take on tasks that you don't really want to do. If you like to
entertain friends, but can't afford the food, host a potluck supper. Let
some things slide. Your family or friends will survive if your house or
apartment is dusty. Also, don't deprive yourself of food, which has symbolic
meaning during the holidays. This does not mean to stuff yourself; eat a
low-calorie snack a half hour before a big meal. It is also important to
take time out to do something you enjoy, like jogging, reading or renting
your favorite movie to watch alone.
Instead of stressing over buying expensive gifts, you might write to your
favorite relatives, letting them know your feelings. You can also give live
plants, which cost considerably less than items such as a DVD player, video
games, jewelry, etc. Some also choose to volunteer at nursing homes or
homeless shelters.
The following are some tips to combat holiday stress.
- Reconnect or establish support systems.
- Take part in fun and laughter.
- Allow yourself to grieve if needed.
- Create new traditions or restart old ones.
- Make an "I'm thankful for ?" list
- Practice good health habits.
- Accept what you cannot change.
- Let yourself play.
- Don't over-plan.
- Be patient and tolerant of self and others.
- Schedule private time.
- Continue the holiday spirit after the holidays.
If you would like to talk with a counselor, please call The Counseling and Advising Center at 483-9937. The Center is located on the second floor of the
GB Building
Look up a counselor on the web page: Who are counselors
