Overcoming Loneliness During the Holidays

The rise of mandated shutdowns and social distancing orders are making this holiday season unlike any other. Many of us are spending the holidays with limited family interactions. It can be an extremely depressing experience, so we are sharing tips to help you overcome loneliness during the holidays.

Seasonal depression

Seasonal affective disorder, commonly referred to as seasonal depression, is a real thing! SAD is more common than you may think. There are more than 3 million cases a year, in the US alone. The change in the climate combined with increased darkness can cause a damper in your mood. Other symptoms of SAD include social withdrawal, fatigue, and depression. How can you fight those symptoms when you’re asked NOT to leave your house? Don’t worry, we can help you get out of this rut!

Making the most of it

If you’re trying to overcome your depression but finding it hard when you are confined to your home, there are a few things you can do to fight the sad feelings. You may not be able to see family and friends, but you can still talk to them! Send out Christmas cards to remind people that you’re thinking of them. Make homemade decorations for the holidays. Thanks to video calls, you can even pick up the phone and feel like you’re right there in the room with whoever is on the other end. Discussing your feelings and talking to people you care about is a good way to overcome loneliness during the holidays. Don’t be ashamed to mention how you feel. Your feelings are warranted and valid.

Avoid self-isolation

A stay-at-home order combined with social distancing can make it hard for you to leave your home, but you want to avoid self-isolation. Fresh air and natural sunlight are extremely beneficial for your overall mood. Light therapy is actually a common treatment for seasonal depression!

Go for a short walk to get yourself outside. Take a seat on your porch and enjoy your coffee. Sit outside and watch your children play or read a book. You can do all of those things while safely social distancing! Open up your blinds and windows if you’re not eager to leave your home. Anything you can do to get the fresh air flowing will help you fight the loneliness you’re feeling during the holidays.

We hope these tips will help you overcome the loneliness of the holidays. Whenever you’re ready to schedule an appointment or counseling service with Aspen Ketamine Center, we are here! Every treatment plan for depression is designed specifically to your needs as an individual. We want to optimize the right number of infusions with the longest duration of benefits.

If you live outside of Colorado and you find that you’re struggling during these troubling times, you can always reach out to the professionals at the national hotline for substance abuse and mental health services administration. The number for the hotline is 1-800-662-HELP (4357).