LI Crisis Center Offers Tips For Beating The Holiday Blues

The holidays are here, and they are a joyous time for many. However, the holidays can be a rough time for many people.

“It’s true that a lot of us walk around with a case of the ‘holiday blues’,” said Theresa Buhse, associate executive director at the Long Island Crisis Center. “There are lots of environmental, social and emotional influences going on at this time of the year. It gets dark earlier, it’s cold, there are expectations from family and friends, budgets get stretched and the list goes on. But, the bottom line is to remember that this is temporary and the feelings will pass.”

It's not at all unusual for some people feel depressed during the holidays. To help those who are feeling down, the Long Island Crisis Center shard some tips to help beat the holiday blues.

• Lower expectations of a “perfect” holiday celebration with friends and family – it’s exhausting; go for fun and friendly instead.
• Take some time for yourself (even a 15-minute break) —get outside, exercise, listen to music, read a book.
• Feeling lonely and isolated? Volunteer at the local food bank – you’ll soon see that you’re needed and valued.
• Don’t get yourself into debt buying presents. You won’t be able to enjoy the gift of giving.
• The holiday season is not an excuse to do away with healthy eating and exercising. Save indulgence for the special days and your body will feel better.
• Keep your sense of humor intact to deal with difficult situations (an annoying relative or a burnt meal).
• Concentrate on what you do have in your life,not on what is missing.

And if anyone needs help, the Long Island Crisis Center’s hotline is available 24/7 throughout the holiday season for anyone who is having difficulty coping. Call 516-679-111 for free, confidential and anonymous crisis counseling, or go to www.chatlive.li from your computer, tablet or mobile phone.

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