Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Joy, Stress, and Everything in Between

Ah, the holiday season – a time of joy, merriment, and… wait, why do I suddenly feel like crawling under a blanket and not emerging until spring? If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why the “most wonderful time of the year” sometimes feels more like the “most anxiety-inducing time of the year,” you’re not alone. Let’s dive into the wild world of mental health during the holidays, shall we?

The Seasonal Shift: When Mother Nature Decides to Play Mind Games

As the leaves start to fall and the air gets crisp, it’s not just our wardrobes that undergo a change. Our minds and bodies are also adjusting to the seasonal shift, and sometimes they’re not too thrilled about it. The days get shorter, the nights get longer, and suddenly, it’s dark when you leave work. It’s like the universe is saying, “Hey, remember that vitamin D you were enjoying? Yeah, we’re gonna need that back.”

This change in daylight can seriously mess with our circadian rhythms, leading to what’s commonly known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). And let’s be honest, SAD is a pretty apt acronym. It’s like our brains are throwing a temper tantrum because they miss the sun.

As John Green so eloquently put it, “There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” So, even when your brain is throwing a fit because it’s dark at 4 PM, remember that this too shall pass.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside (And I’m Not Happy About It)

Along with the decrease in daylight comes the drop in temperature. Suddenly, the idea of going outside seems about as appealing as getting a root canal. We find ourselves bundled up in layers, resembling human burritos, and questioning why we don’t live somewhere tropical.

This decrease in outdoor activity can lead to a decrease in exercise and social interaction, both of which are crucial for maintaining good mental health. It’s a lot harder to go for a jog or meet friends for coffee when it feels like the air is trying to freeze your face off.

But as Fred Rogers wisely said, “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” So, don’t be afraid to mention that you’re feeling like a human popsicle and that it’s affecting your mood.

Time Change: When an Hour Feels Like a Lifetime

Ah, daylight saving time. That magical time of year when we either gain or lose an hour, and our bodies spend the next week wondering what the heck just happened. It’s like jet lag, but without the fun of actually going anywhere.

This time change can throw our sleep schedules out of whack, leading to increased irritability, decreased concentration, and a general feeling of “why is this happening to me?” It’s amazing how one little hour can make us feel like we’re living in an entirely different time zone.

But as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson reminds us, “I found that with depression, one of the most important things you can realize is that you’re not alone. You’re not the first to go through it, you’re not gonna be the last to go through it.” So, when you’re feeling out of sorts due to the time change, remember that millions of others are right there with you, equally confused and cranky.

All By Myself: The Holiday Loneliness Paradox

Here’s a fun paradox for you: the holiday season, a time traditionally associated with togetherness and family, can actually be one of the loneliest times of the year for many people. It’s like being the only person not invited to a party, except the party is everywhere and impossible to ignore.

For those who are far from family, have lost loved ones, or simply don’t have strong social connections, the constant barrage of holiday cheer can feel more like a taunt than a celebration. It’s as if the world is screaming “BE MERRY” while you’re just trying to make it through the day without bursting into tears at the sight of another Hallmark movie.

Shonda Rhimes offers some comfort with her words: “You are not alone. You are seen. I am with you. You are not alone.” Even when it feels like the whole world is coupled up and caroling, remember that there are others out there feeling the same way.

The Pressure to be Jolly

Let’s not forget the immense pressure to be happy during the holidays. It’s like there’s an unwritten rule that from November to January, we must all transform into cheerful elves, spreading joy and goodwill wherever we go. But here’s a revolutionary thought: it’s okay not to be okay, even during the holidays.

As Prince Harry wisely noted, “The experience I have had is that once you start talking about [experiencing a mental health struggle], you realize that actually you’re part of quite a big club.” So, if you’re not feeling the holiday spirit, don’t beat yourself up about it. You’re in good company.

Finding Your Way Out of the Fog

Now, after all this talk of SAD, cold, time changes, and loneliness, you might be feeling a bit… well, sad. But fear not! Just as the seasons change, so too will this period of mental fog and holiday blues.

Remember, the winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year. After that, the days start getting longer again. It’s nature’s way of saying, “Hang in there, buddy. More sunlight is on the way!”

As we trudge through the snow (or rain, or unseasonably warm temperatures – thanks, climate change), it’s important to be kind to ourselves. Take care of your mental health like it’s a delicate Christmas ornament. Be gentle with it, give it the attention it needs, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

And always remember the wise words of Albus Dumbledore: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” Sometimes, that light might be a therapist, a good friend, or even just a really good cup of hot chocolate.

So, as we navigate the tricky terrain of holiday mental health, let’s be patient with ourselves and others. Before we know it, the days will be getting longer, the temperatures will be rising, and we’ll be complaining about how hot it is instead.

Until then, hang in there. Spring is just around the corner, and with it, the promise of renewal, rebirth, and significantly less aggressive holiday music. You’ve got this!

Here’s another post worth reading. Click here.

All items mentioned can be easily purchased by clicking on the orange links sprinkled throughout the post.

Please Share and Subscribe. It Really Helps. Thanks A Million!

_____________________________________

References
[1] https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/2021/12/loneliness-how-to-cope-during-the-holiday-season/
[2] https://therapistsincharlotte.com/therapists-charlotte-blog/how-to-deal-with-loneliness-in-winter/
[3] https://www.samhsa.gov/blog/supporting-your-mental-health-during-holiday-season
[4] https://www.treatmyocd.com/blog/mental-health-quotes
[5] https://www.swagmagic.com/blog/world-mental-health-day-quotes/
[6] https://www.texashealth.org/areyouawellbeing/Behavioral-Health/Mental-Health-and-the-Holidays-Coping-with-Loneliness-and-Stress
[7] https://dailydose.ttuhsc.edu/2023/december/shp-mental-health-through-the-holidays.aspx
[8] https://qcitymetro.com/2023/10/31/mental-health-holiday-blues/
[9] https://mentalhealthmatch.com/articles/anxiety/inspiring-mental-health-quotes