One of the most common practices we seniors usually do during the holidays is reflection. Together with your reflection comes self check. During these times, we try our best to assess what we were able to accomplish and what we missed in our lives. After much deliberation comes planning for the coming year, including short and long term goals. This is done to encourage yourself to always look forward and hope for the best. The downside however is the so-called holiday blues.

Holiday blues can be triggered by the season. Holiday season brings forth sweet memories from the past which may include your lost loved-ones. Also aggravating the bad feeling are health problems you might be having now. Another reason to have the holiday blues is your current financial situation. When combined, it can be a recipe for disaster!

Holiday blues are deeply acknowledged by health professionals since it was observed as a common occurrence during holiday seasons. However, there are ways to avoid holiday blues from attacking seniors, as suggested by doctors:

·    When loneliness strikes, seek other people’s company. This doesn’t mean seniors just calling a friend and talking over the phone or social-network marathon but you have to force yourself to go out and have fun, with real people. Be physically there. If you don’t know where to start, or are afraid of being rejected then go for volunteer programs where you can share yourself to new faces and personalities. Actually, it’s impossible to not have somebody, it’s just, you’re not reaching out hard enough.
·    Avoid drinking too much. When you do, it effectively brings down your inhibitions, making you more vulnerable to hurt. Alcohol is a known depressant that is why your doctors strictly advise against it when suffering depression.
·    Get someone to talk to you. You need to take it off your chest. Senior centers have counseling groups to assist you when nobody is available to talk, don’t hesitate to seek help when you need them.
·    Depression has signs, it is best if you get yourself familiar with them. The soonest you recognize these signs, the better you’ll be able to handle the situation.
·    Try to divert your attention to something else totally unrelated to what is bothering you. Do something daring or a task you’ve been meaning to do for a long time. Sense of accomplishment can easily counteract depression.
·    Even if it seems easier to stay at home and be with yourself, resist it. You need to be out there and discover the world and what it has to offer you now. You can never find these things alone.

Depression is a state wherein the only person who could help you overcome it is yourself. Yes, help can be sought but it can only do so much for you. Deciding what’s best for you, still, is the best way to beat the holiday blues.