The Least Wonderful Time of the Year

When the nights get longer and the temperatures drop, there tends to be an increase of folks who struggle with depression symptoms, grief, and anxiety. As a therapist, I see a big jump in people requesting appointments during this time of year. Let's face it -- the holiday season is really hard! 

We crafted a four part series called "The Least Wonderful Time of the Year" to connect with folks who feel this struggle and let them know they are not alone. How human of us to feel more tired and disconnected during a time that was meant for us to rest and reflect! In our society and culture, we are expected to keep going  -- even ramping up our efforts with gift buying and parties during this time of year. How exhausting! 

One of the ways we can manage the feelings we are experiencing during this season is to learn how to self-soothe in a healthy way. For many of us, learning how to self-soothe was either harmful or non-existent. We drank, spent, ate, and ran our feelings away until one day we were left empty and lonely. What once healed us was now hurting us. It wasn't working anymore! 

I learned much later in life than I wish I had that we can pair uncomfortable feelings with things that bring us comfort and support. We don't have to plunge headfirst into the deep end just to prove that we are "strong enough" to handle our feelings. We can lovingly wade into the water with swimmies on, goggles and a noseplug while our friends and loved ones cheer us on from the side of the pool. 

If you are interested in learning more about how to navigate your feelings during this season (and any really), head over to our YouTube page to learn more. 

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