Tomorrow will be difficult for many, myself included, as sometimes I do wish I had a normal family life. Still, I no longer let that stop me from living because I use these exact coping skills to beat holiday depression:
▪️Remember, you ARE NOT alone, so stop saying or thinking this! We all are suffering in some way, and don’t beat yourself up thinking you’re the only person in the world 🌎 who’s depressed because you are not! Take this time to reach out to a supportive friend, coach/mentor, or call a hotline SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
▪️That neighbor down the street that’s always asking for you to come over go! That co-worker who is always asking you to go out for drinks, take them up on that! Just don’t sit a waddle in self-pity; this landed me in a mental hospital! If you are invited, it’s ok to go, and it’s definitely ok to have a good time!
▪️Start your own traditions; for year’s my husband, and I would go to the beach 🏖yes, we love it down there even in the winter! This was our new tradition because neither of us celebrated with family! I haven’t been in the mood to slave over a stove, so we order take out! It’s ok! Start your tradition…
▪️Do what makes you happy, now if you choose not to do anything at all, then that’s ok too! You are not obligated to partake in festivities if you don’t want to! And don’t feel guilty if you want to curl up with a blanket and Hallmark movies!!! Do what makes you feel good, period!
🖤
Olivia B. Shepherd 