Helping others may alleviate annual holiday season sadness

The holiday season spreads joy and exhilaration for many people. With carols in the air, tensile and glitter everywhere, anticipation is high. Many picture this as a time of family gatherings, decorations, good food, and gift exchanging.

For other people, however, the holidays are not necessarily a time of happiness and cheer. In fact, there are a significant number of individuals that actually dread the holiday season. Consider the following:

• Many elderly live alone or without supportive friends or relatives close by. These individuals often lack the economic resources to help brighten their holidays. Those suffering from chronic pain and debilitating medical conditions are often restricted from activities that might bring other people joy and happiness.

• Individuals that are single are sometimes separated from families and places of origin. With many of their friends and acquaintances involved with their own families, a single person may feel left out of the holiday celebration.

• Those in the military who are serving our country far from their families and close friends miss spending time with their loved ones.

• Newly divorced couples or those who have recently experienced a death in the family often feel a sense of loss and sadness which can be worse at this time of year.

Loneliness during the holidays can be the loneliest time of the year. Following are a few suggestions that might be of help to the lonely person during the holidays:

• Plan ahead. There are many activities that can keep a person busy during this time of the year if you look for them in advance. Church related events, community affairs, a few good movies or a special vacation can all make the holiday season a less lonely time.

• There is an old saying that goes something like this “loneliness is often cause by wanting people to do something for us…. when we do things for other people, we are rarely lonely.” Look for activities of service to those less fortunate than yourself during this seasons. Volunteer your time by striving to reduce the loneliness of someone else. There are myriads of people who need help. Find them and help them.

• Avoid escapes. Alcohol, too much sleep and watching too much T.V. can all be counterproductive.

Remember that the holiday season is time limited. January 2nd brings back normal routines for many individuals who leave behind the holiday season for another whole year.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright 2002