Hi! It’s your therapist in Bel Air, MD back with more holiday tips! The holidays are known for bringing joy and cheer, but what if you aren't feeling very joyous this year? It’s cold in Bel Air right now and sadness is linked to cold weather. As the festive season is coming to an end, it's essential to acknowledge that the holidays can be a mixed bag of emotions. I'm here to guide you through the maze of holiday blues with insights from both a personal and professional standpoint. Let's embark on this journey together, finding the balance between self-care and supporting those around us, especially in the charming community of Bel Air, MD.

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Navigating Holiday Blues: From Your Therapist in Bel Air, MD

Personal Anecdote

Allow me to share a personal story that might resonate with you. This was the first holiday season after loosing my mom in January. I didn’t think that the loss would hit me so hard during the holidays.

I’ve been grieving all year and I feel like I’ve done a good job balancing my grief with staying present for my family and clients. But as my birthday approached in November, the feeling of loss was so overwhelming.

I was able to see my clients and complete the bare minimum of tasks, but I often found myself feeling depleted, overwhelmed, and extremely sad. I’m not used to feeling this way. I am usually able to dissociate and get things done, but the pain of loosing someone you’ve loved your entire life can cause you to deal with your emotions differently.

My sadness then manifested into migraines and stomach aches. I had no choice but to rest and fully feel my emotions. It was then that I realized the importance of addressing these emotions and finding a path towards a more balanced and fulfilling holiday season. Once I listened to my body and started taking care of myself in the ways my body was craving, the sadness became more manageable.

Understanding the Holiday Blues

You don’t have to be in a grieving period to experience the holiday blues. The holiday blues are more common than you might think. It's not just about the pressure to meet societal expectations; it's also influenced by various triggers and contributing factors. From family dynamics to financial stress, these factors can cast a shadow over the festive spirit. Understanding these dynamics is the first step toward managing and overcoming the holiday blues.

A Therapist Perspective

As both an individual and a therapist, I recognize the delicate balance required during this season. My professional insights highlight the significance of self-care while embracing the desire to support others. The values embedded in this approach align with the holistic well-being of individuals and the community as a whole.

Practical Tips for Balance

To navigate the holiday blues, consider these practical tips that strike a balance between self-care and supporting others.

1. Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that perfection is not the goal. Just because society tells us that we are supposed to be happiest during the holiday season, does mean that this is true for everyone every year. Some years are harder than others and it’s important to recognize this so you can care for yourself accordingly. If you are in denial of your feelings, how can you properly care for yourself during this difficult time.

2. Prioritize Self-Care Rituals: Establish routines that prioritize your well-being. Not just during the holiday season, but regularly throughout the year. The more you care for yourself the way your body is craving, the easier it will be to cope when you start to feel down or anxious.

3. Communicate Openly: Share your feelings with loved ones, fostering understanding.

4. Create Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary, preserving your energy.

Balancing Self-Care and Support

Finding equilibrium between self-care and supporting others is an ongoing process. It involves recognizing when to prioritize your needs and when to extend a helping hand. This can be a significant challenge for those of us who are caregivers.

Whether you are a mom, a caregiver for an ailing family member, or have a career caring for others (nurse, therapist, policer officer, etc.) finding a balance with caring for yourself and adhering to your responsibilities can be challenging. Strive for a harmonious blend that allows you to enjoy the festivities without sacrificing your well-being.

Therapist in Bel Air, MD Specific Insights

In our lovely Bel Air community, we have unique opportunities and challenges. Do a quick google search to find the resources that will be rejuvenating to you in Bel Air, MD. Explore local events, support groups, or community services that can enhance your holiday experience. By connecting with the local resources available, you'll find a network of support tailored to our community's needs.

Just Because People May Not Talk About Feeling The Holiday Blues, Doesn’t Mean You Are Alone in Your Sadness.

The holiday blues are a shared experience, and you're not alone in navigating them. By adopting a holistic approach that combines self-care with supporting others, you can find joy and balance this holiday season. Embrace the magic of the holidays in Bel Air, MD, and remember that your well-being is just as important as the joy you bring to others.

Are You Ready to Start the New Year Off Right by Partnering With a Therapist in Bel Air, MD?

My name is Chenelle and I am a therapist located in Bel Air, MD. I provide online counseling so even if you are located outside of Bel Air (VA, DC, another city in MD, and FL) I can still be of service! I specialize in helping women with relationship anxiety and difficult relationships with their mothers. These issues tend to show themselves significantly during the holidays.

Now that the holidays are coming to an end, it’s time to reflect on our experiences in 2023 and start fresh in 2024. If you’d like therapy to be a part of your self care regimen in 2024, schedule a FREE 15 minute consultation with me to see if I’d be a good fit for you. Even if you don’t decide to work with me, I may be able to get you in the right direction with another amazing therapist.

Wishing you a peaceful and fulfilling year in 2024!