Hey Guys. I want to get serious for a moment. The holidays..
Added 2022-11-23 16:37:57 +0000 UTCHey Guys. I want to get serious for a moment. The holidays are approaching and though our mental health had certainly taken a beating during Covid, we all have different reactions to the holidays that can add to that stress. Some love this season, taking advantage of spending time with friends and family, and some tend to stay more on their own, whether by choice or by circumstance. And if those circumstances make you feel more lonely than just plain alone, it can be tough. Even though it seems that the whole world is celebrating together, many of us don't feel a part of that. I have a complicated relationship to these holidays. My mom died a few years ago on Thanksgiving (which totally screws that holiday for me), and as a Jew, I've never totally "gotten" Christmas (and Chanukah never had the same joy that Christmas seemed to give my friends). So I've always felt a bit of an outsider for these events, not to mention that my birthday is New Year's Eve, the worst day to have a birthday ever (It's all Happy New Year! and not Happy Birthday!). Whatever. My point is that the holidays can do a number on us and I want you to know that you're not alone in feeling that (if you do). Try to find some joy if you can, some connection, but if you feel you can't, that's ok. Go to movies, exercise, eat some fun stuff, try not to fall into the abyss of depression that seems to elevate around this time. Remember, there's a difference between alone and lonely. I like to be alone, but when it crosses over into lonely, it hurts. Don't think you're being a burden by reaching out, maybe to a family member you haven't spoken to in a while or a friend that seemed to fade out of distance, or even a professional (I'm a huge fan of therapy, and there is no shame to it). And honestly, please do message me here if you feel you want to share these thoughts. I'm a pretty good listener. Connection. Life is about connection. But connection is not that simple. Stay strong, find some light, and know that I love you guys. Really. I'm grateful for you every day. My best to one and all. David
