Coping with Sadness During the Holidays

As seen in Discover Fauquier, November 2022

For many people, the holiday season is full of joy and merriment. Yet, for others it is a source of deep-rooted grief, anxiety and even depression. Here are some tips on how you can approach the holiday season, if you are one who struggles, or how you can help someone you know who may be having a difficult time.

Struggling Individuals

• Give yourself permission to be sad. It is okay to feel the loss of a loved one. But, try to share a favorite and joyful memory with your family of the person you lost.
• Remember your self-care. Take walks, eat healthy and spend time socializing with others, even if it is in a different way than previous years. Socializing with others is important.
• Set expectations for yourself. Give yourself permission to leave a family function early if it is too difficult, and let your family know in advance you may need to do this.

Helping Others

• Let them know they are not alone.
• Let people know it is okay to feel sad or anxious.
• Respect that a person may need to celebrate differently, or not celebrate, this year.
• Plan to connect on an emotional level outside of the holiday event.
• Spend time with a person by doing something they love – maybe playing a game, or watching a movie together.

The Mental Health Association’s website offers a free mental health provider directory and a video, Supporting Mental Wellness During the Holidays, on its YouTube page. For more information, visit www.fauquier-mha.org. If you think someone is in crisis, please call/text 988 Suicide & Crisis Line for immediate assistance.