To Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P]
The holiday season is full of colors, from cheerful reds and golds to calmer tones and somber hues. It is the multitude of colors that create the special beauty of the season. This time of year is an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge that not everyone is feeling festive, and that not being okay is okay too.
Not everyone enjoys this season, and for many it can be highly depressing, especially in the midst of a pandemic that has taken away friends, family, acquaintances; but also because prolonged confinement has exacerbated the confrontations, fears, annoyances, anger and sadness that, sometimes, we do not deal with very well.
In light of this, the San Mateo County Health Department's Behavioral Health and Recovery Services is calling for action and participation in its self-care challenge, with the first challenge being to communicate with others and get support, if needed.
It's okay not to be happy
The holiday season is full of images and sounds that can trigger symptoms of trauma, feelings of sadness, guilt and shame because they are reminders of loss or vital things lost, the institution recalled.
When it seems like everyone else is swimming in joyous abundance, the contrast with how we feel can heighten the pain. Even if we are lucky enough to live in a comfortable home and be surrounded by family, the increased presence of alcohol, rich foods, and more intense socializing can cause anxiety.
If you feel sad or angry, ask yourself, “What hurts and what kind of help do you need?”
The institution encourages you to name the things that cause resentment and think about what makes you feel better. Simple things that can be found in everyday life are best, such as taking a walk or bike ride outside, reading a favorite book, watching a beloved movie, or practicing deep breathing. If your feelings are overwhelming, remember, you are not alone. It is okay to reach out to someone you trust.
It's okay to be happy too
Rejoice in these feelings and cultivate gratitude for being able to feel them.
No matter what you've been through this year, you deserve to celebrate and feel good. However, practicing balance and self-care is just as important when you're happy. Nothing will spoil happy feelings like overdoing them.
Be sure to moderate your alcohol and food intake, incorporate movement every day, and get plenty of rest. If possible, set aside quiet time for mindfulness practices such as deep breathing and reflection.
How can you reach out to others who are having a difficult time during the holiday season?
The holiday expectations of togetherness and togetherness make this time of year especially difficult for those who may be alone, have lost a loved one, or are homeless and without a livelihood. In most cases, these are not problems you can solve, but you can get out of your way with a small act of kindness.
Recognize the homeless person you meet on the street, ask if you can buy them a coffee or a sandwich. At social gatherings or when communicating with friends and family, be alert to signs that the person may be sad and open the door for them to share their feelings.
To obtain 24/7 emotional support for yourself or a loved one, authorities have made the following resources available to residents:
- Star Vista Crisis Hotline: 650-579-0350
- Crisis Text Line: Text “Bay” to 741741
- Peer-run warm line: 1-855-845-7415
Find additional resources at Behavioral Health and Recovery Services
For more information on the Take Action for Mental Health campaign, please visit: www.takeaction4mh.com
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