For many people, the holiday season is associated with lively celebrations and family bonding. Despite the annual festivities, it’s common to experience feelings of loneliness and loss. These melancholy emotions are called the "holiday blues.”

Navigating the holiday blues can seem difficult, especially when the world around us feels immersed in holiday cheer. However, identifying our feelings and understanding the underlying cause is the first step toward managing them. Let's look at how to beat the holiday blues and embrace the season with renewed hope and enthusiasm.

What Can Cause the Holiday Blues?

While every individual's situation is unique, there are some common factors. Some might be reminiscing about holidays past or feeling socially isolated if their loved ones are no longer present. Others might feel the weight of personal changes, like retirement or relocating away from their original homes, making the holiday season feel less joyous.

Tips for Managing the Holiday Blues

If you sense holiday loneliness creeping in, these methods might assist with alleviating the blues:

• Stay connected: The digital age has created various platforms that make staying connected easy. Video calls with loved ones and friends, online holiday games, phone calls, and texts can ease the sadness. There are many creative ways to bond with loved ones, even if they are miles away.
• Embrace new traditions: While cherishing memories is natural, creating new traditions can be rewarding. This could be the year you engage in a book club, start a new hobby, or volunteer in the community.
• Seek Support: Seeking professional help or joining a support group can be beneficial If feelings of loneliness or grief become overwhelming. Sometimes, just talking about your feelings can make a world of difference.
• Stay active: Whether it is a morning walk, chair exercises, yoga, or dancing to your favorite holiday tunes, staying active can significantly boost your mood.
• Limit stress: Holidays can sometimes come with their share of stress. It is crucial to recognize when you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed and take steps to manage it. This may involve delegating tasks, setting boundaries, or using relaxation techniques like meditation.

Become An IntuneHealth Patient Today

Whether you see us in-person or a virtually, IntuneHealth  is here to support you during the holidays and beyond. You deserve to prioritize your mental health no matter the time of year, so you can truly live your best, healthiest life.

IntuneHealth is a new approach to primary care for people 65+ on a Medicare Advantage plan. We specialize in caring for older adults and offer proactive, preventive care to keep you healthy — including walk-in visits and same-day appointments for patients — so you can spend more time living your best life. Book a tour with us today!