one down one to go....

Thanksgiving has passed and I look forward to Christmas. I realize a lot of people have a rough time whether mentally ill or not. I realize that on a previous post I was a bit too one sided in my approach to the holidays.  Many of us struggle during this time of year. I feel that I am at my best during the holidays. Yet I can sympathize with those who suffer during this time of year.

Why are the holidays so difficult? Stress is a big factor. We want things to be perfect ,the perfect gift, party, family get together. When things fall short of our expectations we feel terrible. Perhaps the key word here is expectations. Nothing can ever live uo to the notions of the holidays that we all have. It's been pumped not us from the earliest of ages that Christmas is the "most wonderful time of the year. Tis the season to be jolly, be merry, and happy holidays all tell us to be in the spirit of Christmas. What do we do if our expectations exceed reality and we just can't wait for it to be January the 2nd?

First take into account that you have a mental illness that if you are bipolar affects your mood. Stay steady during the holidays. Continue to do the hard work of recovery despite the season. Keep taking your meds, go to support group and air your concerns to your support team.

Be realistic. In order to stay healthy and stable don't put pressure on yourself to be perfect. There are times when you will have to take a break from all of the hubbub . Be kind to yourself and if you need a break from the action , do so. You won't always feel in the spirit of things ,you might feel depressed and down. Be sure you allow for these feelings and gain some measure of comfort from the fact that we all struggle during the holidays.

Focus on what you love. If your thing is baking, giving gifts, visiting friends and family, pick one and focus your energies on those things . Don't be afraid to avoid the things you don't care for. Saying no to a party, a gathering or an event doesn't mean you are depressed. You may be smart to protect your mental health by avoiding stressful circumstances.

Above all, Try to build some positive memories of the season. January 1st will be here soon enough and with it all of life's realities. When things get tough, A good memory may help you fight on in the new year.