By Danae Reid
The holiday season is officially in full swing, and while some people are reveling in festive cheer, others can’t wait for the season to be over.
For the past few months, departments stores, television ads, and more have turned their focus to the holidays in anticipation of the huge spike in consumerism that we see around this time annually. Expressions of love, sentiments of joy, and the spirit of giving are heavily encouraged during this time of year, however, not everyone can adapt to such feelings so easily.
Mood disorders and emotional issues are fairly common around the holidays. While this season in considered a happy time for some, others may experience heightened feelings of loss, lack, stress, loneliness, depression, pain, etc. for a myriad of reasons. The constant reminder of happiness can be a huge burden on a person whose been exposed to trauma as of late, thus making it nearly impossible to think about the things that we have to be grateful for.
I’ve come up with a list of a couple everyday things to be grateful for, for those who may be struggling to see the light this holiday season:
1. You woke up this morning: Not everyone was able to wake up this morning, but you did! God gave you another day to try again.
2. You get to take some time off of work(which I’m sure you need).
3. Growth: Wisdom comes with time and experience. You’re healing and becoming a better version of yourself daily!
4. Resources (such as water, air, electricity)
5. Family and/or friends that love and care about you: We all need someone that we love, that also love us back.
6. God: If you are a believer, a relationship with God is the most important thing!
7. Books/Art/Movies: These three things can shape a whole new world. The three together allow us to transport to an alternate reality and gives us a means to escape, learn, and advance.
8. You’ve made it this far: You’ve overcome so much! You should be so proud of yourself.
9. Emotions: Although we may prefer to not experience feelings of sadness, you can’t appreciate the good times if life doesn’t throw you curveballs at times. Challenges make us who we are.
10. Sunny Day: The sun provides Vitamin D. Higher levels of vitamin D have been linked to feelings of happiness.
I hope that you enjoy your holiday season, and please know that you’re all in my thoughts and prayers.
Disclaimer: This is in no way meant to serve as a substitute for dealing with serious conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, etc. if you are experiencing any of the aforementioned, call the following suicide prevention hotline at:1-800-273-8255 or visit: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org to learn more.
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