STREETZine
DECEMBER EDITION 2023
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Holiday Blues By Wendy Rojo This is the time when we start anticipating the new year and try to make the most of what is left of 2023. Everyone has different feelings about the holidays or the conclusion of the year. For some, this time can bring anxiety or an overwhelming emotion. As a society, we set expectations for what the holidays should look like or how a person should feel during them. There is also a societal emphasis on consumerism. However, a person’s experience during this season is uniquely their own. Not everyone may want to spend the holidays with their family, or they may not buy gifts. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 64% of people living with a mental illness feel their condition worsen around this period. Regardless of whether a person chooses to celebrate the holidays or not, it is important to acknowledge that this time of year can be tough for some. According to an American Psychological Association survey, 38% of people said their stress increased during the holiday time. The rise is attributed to lack of time, financial pressure, gift-giving, and family gatherings. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that 64% of people living with a mental illness feel their condition worsen around this period. The obligations that come with the holidays can be a stressor for anyone, not just for those who have an existing mental illness. However, learning to cope with the overwhelmingness that comes with the holidays is a useful skill for everyone to have. The Mass General Brigham suggests that if a person is dealing with the blues, they can attempt to surround themselves with people who feel similarly and create new traditions. They also suggest prioritizing the most important activities and scheduling get-togethers after the holidays. Prioritize yourself and take
Art by Stewpot Artist Teresa Zacarias. care of your mental health during these hectic times, even if that is easier said than done. Luckily, there are organizations that provide extra help during this season. For example, the Salvation Army does its “adopt an angel” event where you can help provide gifts for a person(s) in need. Catholic Charities has a Christmas program where you can make a monetary donation and their volunteers will shop for the items people have specifically requested. Food pantries around Dallas also provide meals or groceries to those in need. For example, The Stewpot provides groceries to families in need twice a month. Additionally, anyone in Texas can dial 211 and request information about community and social services. This season should be about reflecting on the year you have just completed — the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Regardless of whether you love the holidays or dislike them, it is crucial to not put yourself under so much pressure. This season should be about reflecting on the year you have just completed — the good, the bad, and the ugly. These moments and the people we get to share them with are what the holidays should be about. If we focus on spending quality time together, we can all combat the holiday blues. Wendy Rojo is managing editor of STREETZine.