January 2004
Avoid the Post Holiday Blues
The cold dreary days of January and February are prime months for doldrums to set upon people. The busy Holidays keep us detracted and excited. People visit, call, exchange greetings and gifts at heightened pace. Special programs and events compete for places on our calendars. Suddenly New Year celebrations bring all this frenzied activity to an end. Phones are quiet. The mailbox is empty.
No one drops by spontaneously. Many are alone. It is at this time we become most vulnerable to feelings of loneliness and depression that can so easily sink into the quietness of our minds, especially if one has lost a loved one. To suffer thus, the loss does not have to have been recent. Memories tend to burn bright at special times. During the rush of holiday preparation and the heat of celebration our thoughts are diverted but when it all settles down to a more normal routine old memories flood our senses. If unexpected this can be an overwhelming and traumatic experience. We need help. We need a method of coping that will bring us through with hope and calm assurance.
First this writer suggests that you be prepared. Expect that you will remember past Holidays when times were different. Sort out the good and downplay the unpleasant. Focus on how your shared time with those now gone made you a better, more sensitive person. Only one who has lost someone dear can relate to another in the same circumstances. This provides us with a basis for ministry and service. Encourage someone else. In so doing you find yourself encouraged.
Second, do not allow yourself to slip into depression. Give your mind some pleasant thoughts. Do this by watching an uplifting program—if none can be found on your television networks rent a good old happy ending or funny movie. Tune in your radio to praise music or optimistic ministers. Now would be a great time to find those old TV standbys—Kids Say the Funniest Things and Candid Camera.
Third and my preferred diversion is to read a good book. Get yourself a comfortable corner, good light and maybe a favorite coffee or tea and immerse yourself in the writer’s world for a while. This activity relaxes and refreshes me as well as provides me with new knowledge and adventure.
Last, but certainly best, give some time to Godly meditation and communication. Our Heavenly Father knows us most intimately and is more than willing to heal our hurts and soothe lonely hearts. Focusing on Him, His Word, and His Promises always brings a new perspective on life and diminishes its problems.
It is a fact that more people experience depression and discouragement during the months of January and February than any other time of year. Yet we do not have to be among those numbers. With a little careful planning and effort we can avoid the post holiday blues.