Most of us eagerly look forward to the holidays as a time to practice long honored family traditions, spend time with seldom seen relatives, and indulge in a few holiday treats. But for those going through a divorce, November and December can serve as very painful reminders that everything is different this year. That can make divorced people especially susceptible to depression. A recent article shares some tips for those struggling with emotions this time of year:
-Be prepared for your emotional ups and downs, identify when you will be most vulnerable and plan ahead of time what you will do to get through the moment.
-Accept your loss; while the holidays can remind you of your loss, they will pass. Give yourself permission to just get through the season and become stronger for next year.
– Get out of the house and socialize with other people, it will lift your spirits.
– Adjust your expectations; keep in mind that no one has a holiday like they portray them in the movies – and that’s okay.
-Stay away from drugs and alcohol; they will only make you more depressed and anxious.
– Give yourself time to heal; put aside things that remind you of your loss, like Christmas tree ornaments and certain foods or fragrances.
– Stay healthy by eating well and exercising. Both are natural mood lifters.
– Keep the phone number of a friend or counselor nearby, or join a support group if you need some extra moral support.
– Talk to your family and close friends about what you can and can’t handle and stick to it.
– Mix up your usual holiday routine by doing something completely different, like taking a cruise.
The holidays don’t have to hurt. Find out more about this topic at Handling the Holidays During Divorce or Loss.
If you are considering divorce, please contact our firm for compassionate legal counsel.