How To Help Utahns Who Just Can’t Do Holidays

The holidays are magical for some while being painfully anxious and heartbreaking for others but there are ways to handle it.  

Between the months of October to January, people go to family gatherings, make lots of food, worry about gifts and experience loss. This is true for Utah as well. It happens all over the world and in the U.S.  

Christmas, which has different meanings for different people, and Thanksgiving are both stress-giving holidays. Sure, there are cool moments like seeing the family and getting yummy food, but the stress is killer for some. Especially if you are hosting.  

The McLean Hospital has some tips on understanding holiday woes and how to deal with them.  

Just Not Feeling It 

Some of us just don’t get into the holiday spirit and that is totally okay. For some it's a time of feeling extra lonely or an anniversary of a death.  

• Recognize those feelings and don’t force yourself to be cheerful.  

• Don’t numb it out with alcohol. 

• Find people who feel similarly. 

• Realize your limitations when it comes to gatherings. 

• Remember that everyone is a little stressed. 

• Plan your holiday so you can be at ease. 

• Set intentions for yourself and relay to friends and family. 

• You don’t have to celebrate. 

Sunlight 

As Winter is a much darker time, it can impact mental health. The best way to go about fixing it is to get a bit of sun each day. It's cold so it's easy to just stay inside but it can make things worse.  

Isolation 

Another issue that comes with the holidays is self-isolation. Though there may be planned gatherings it can be easy to feel alone or isolated. Use calming techniques like meditating, reading, and exercising. Taking care of yourself is the best way to address feelings of isolation. Also, reach out to friends and family when needed.