The most beautiful time of the year is far from over. While many are still celebrating, some are dreading the loneliest season for them.
If you feel afraid, worried, or depressed when the holidays knock on your door, then you might be experiencing the Holiday Blues Syndrome.
Thankfully, here are some practical ways that can help you beat those not-so-welcome feelings this merry season:
Tip #1: ‘Tis the season to go out
Psychologist Mariglo Vicente shared that to avoid holiday blues, you need to go out, expose yourself to light, and avoid dark places, as they can affect your mood and perspective in life. Did you know that sleeping and staying at home for a long time this holiday season—dubbed as hibernating—might add up to that gloomy feeling?
“We need outdoor activities, even short daytime activities like exercise because exercise can boost our neurotransmitters and brain chemicals that help us feel better and have a positive disposition,” Dr. Mariglo suggests.
So, go out and bask in the holiday sun!
Tip #2: ‘Tis the season to eat healthy
Filipinos celebrating the holidays won’t be the same without feasting on sumptuous meals. Isn’t it great to know that aside from satisfying your cravings, there are foods that can boost your mood?
Milk, eggs, and other food rich in protein can help your brain make you feel good because they are high in Tryptophan. Medline Plus defines Tryptophan as an essential amino acid that helps make Serotonin. Serotonin produces healthy sleep and a stable mood. You can also add other Tryptophan-enriched foods like chicken, cheese, chocolate, and turkey as Healthline suggests.
Tip #3: ‘Tis the season to be merry… with friends and family
In the midst of the holiday rush and blues, mental health experts emphasize the need to connect with loved ones.
“Keep in touch with other people, friends, and especially family. Let’s ask for their support. Let’s proactively do it. Let others know that you need someone to be with or ask them to join you. If you feel lonely, go out with them so you can fight Christmas blues,” Dr. Mariglo ended.
See this season as a great opportunity to enjoy the moment with them while remembering the true value of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ. Truly, it’s a precious moment to pray, reflect, and realign hearts to Him.
May your Christmas and New Year be blessed and merry!
Caught up in the holiday blues?
We are here to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.
