It is often a universal truth to find the holiday season synonymous with cheer. Yet so many find struggle amidst the joy.
The American Psychological Association finds that 38 percent of studied people feel an increase in their stress levels during the holidays. The National Alliance on Mental Illness found that 64 percent of those living with mental illnesses reported worsening conditions. Most notably, high suicide rates are often cited as a consequence of neglected needs during this time.
If the season is so directly associated with joy, why do so many people feel the opposite?
There are a variety of reasons, unique to each person.
Teens specifically are at the age where they are first getting their own independence and finances, and can easily be caught up in various events, such as parties and hangouts so time management becomes a difficulty. Regarding gifts, people come from diverse backgrounds, it is not always easy to provide for themselves and others at a time where festivities are so dependent on finances. In both aspects, it is easy to put one’s own self aside for the sake of others, which can quickly become negative when pushed beyond limits.
Winter is also a factor- the season of joy is also the season of cold, damp weather and overcast skies that remain dark for long periods of time. People are often stuck inside scrolling their phones, left with no alternatives. The reduced levels of sunlight is frequently cited as the most common cause of Seasonal Affective Disorder, which most often begins in early fall and carries through the winter.
The notion that enjoying the holidays is a “must” often has the opposite effect. Some are not on board with the rampant commercialism and consumerism, some have no one to come home to for the holiday and some are grappling with how the holidays have highlighted the way a loved one’s death has left a seemingly unfillable hole.
Letting others bring you down is never the answer to any problem. However, in the middle of all that goes on, it is not always easy to grasp the struggles of others or even oneself, especially at a time centered around “magic” and “spirit”.
Commercialism, the weather, sadness, grief, etc. are not going to change anytime soon. That being said, one’s attitude towards others or themselves dealing with these things can. All it takes is acknowledging limitations and emotions to make the holidays easier for people. The phrase “It’s OK not to be OK.” is not any less applicable over the holidays than it is any other time of year. In fact, for some, it may be even more applicable than ever.
Embracing the bittersweet side of the holidays is not always easy, but it is key to battling the loneliness that plagues so many this season.