By Melanie VanderPol-Bailey, MSW, CSW-PIP

The holiday season can be wonderful, joyful, busy, painful, lonesome and challenging.  People may feel that good tidings of comfort and joy are simply out of reach.  This season can be a time where many find themselves wrestling with difficult emotions. Loneliness and depression are complex and interconnected experiences that can be exacerbated by various factors during the holidays. The emphasis on togetherness, coupled with societal expectations of joy and celebration, can intensify feelings of isolation for those already grappling with mental health challenges. 

Some examples this season’s challenges may include the following scenarios: I live in the nursing home and I watch visitors trickle in and out, but I have not seen my family in months, which makes me sad.  I struggle with anxiety and feel an overwhelming since of panic at a celebratory event.  I may feel intense bouts of loneliness, but my calendar is filled with activities.  The grief of losing a loved one hurts more during this season when their absence feels highlighted. I just want my loved one to be here.  I have been working on my unhealthy relationship with alcohol and the gatherings I am expected to attend center around drinking.  My relationships have shifted and I am mourning those changes.  I miss my family and friends and I feel worse when I scroll through posts of others seemingly blissful lives.  I have said yes to so many things that I have not made time to care well for myself.  I have noticed more feelings of intense sadness and I find myself shutting down and isolating myself from others.

These are just a few examples of common struggles many may face as this year comes to a close.  Having awareness to our own needs as well as awareness that others may have unknown challenges is a great place to begin as you navigate this season.   Reach out for support or reach in to others who may need your support. Create meaningful traditions that are congruent with your values and bring you joy.  Set realistic expectations versus societal expectations. Engage in self-care.  Volunteer and give back. Limit social media use and be mindful of the impact of social media on your emotions.  If it contributes to negative feelings consider taking a break or curating you’re online experience to focus on positive content.  Spend time with someone in your family or circle that may desire company and connection.

The holiday season may amplify feelings of loneliness and depression, and it is essential to remember that you are not alone in facing these challenges.   With resilience and compassion for yourself and others, remember the true spirit of the holidays lies in fostering connections and finding joy in the moments that bring meaning to your life. Seek professional help if your feelings of loneliness and depression persist or worsen.  Consider seeking the support of a mental health professional who can provide a safe space to explore these emotions and develop coping strategies.  At all four of our locations - River Counseling Services in Platte, Sioux Falls Psychological Services, and Stronghold Counseling Services in Sioux Falls and in Yankton, our mission is this- we meet you where you are, offering hope.  You may schedule an appointment at the Platte office at 605-337-3444 or meet with one of our Sioux Falls or Yankton based therapists from your computer, smartphone, or in person at any of our clinics. To schedule an appointment, please call 605-334-2696.