We are currently experiencing the height of the holiday season and all that goes with it. The end of the year is traditionally a time for celebration and social gatherings, but many people are still unable to continue these traditions due to the ongoing coronavirus epidemic, the unknowns surrounding the quickly spreading omicron strain, and persistent social-distancing restrictions.
Even in “normal” circumstances, this time of year can cause self-reflection, anxiety, loneliness, and despair for certain people.
Grief may also be more intense right now because it is so obvious that loved ones are missing from yearly celebrations.
The Black population may be much more at risk of sadness and anxiety this holiday season than in previous years due to the COVID-19’s preponderance of Black and Brown victims, as well as other key events of the last two years, such as racial and social upheaval and widespread job losses.
There are few steps you can do to stop a spiral during the holidays, whether it’s brought on by the absence of a loved one, financial uncertainty, or a mental health issue that’s causing anxiety, sadness, or just a general feeling of unwellness.
Stress and PTSD among Black People
Black youth are more likely to experience toxic stress due to their socioeconomic disadvantage, which occurs when the body’s reaction to scary or frightening events or circumstances becomes extreme.
According to a study released in May 2019 by the Economic Policy Institute, Black teenagers are more likely to experience such occurrences, which increases their likelihood of struggling academically and developing behavioral and health issues.
According to a study, Black Americans are also more likely to get post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Following exposure to a traumatic event, PTSD frequently appears, and its symptoms can include avoidant behavior, flashbacks, as well as changes in mood and cognition.
Steps You Can Take
There are steps you may take to find relief if you or someone you care about is struggling with clinical depression, an anxiety disorder, or stress or anxiety related to the holidays.
For people who are dealing with more transient holiday symptoms, we advise:
- Eat nutritious, well-balanced meals.
- Sleep and rest sufficiently.
- Take part in relaxing, peaceful, and beneficial activities.
- For the holiday season, be sure your expectations are reasonable.
- Track your Christmas expenditures and stick to your spending limit.
- Accept and find peace with what is possible and impossible at this time.
- Limit alcohol consumption and other activities that might make you feel depressed or lonely.
- Volunteer to aid those who are less fortunate if you’re feeling lonely.
- Avoid focusing on comparisons between the past and present.
- Live in the moment and take it in.
- Embrace the future with hope.
Speak with a mental health expert if your stress is interfering with your ability to maintain a regular schedule for the day.
Remembering that research on interventions and health outcomes for many conditions, and especially for disorders like depression and anxiety, may have been conducted with a majority of white participants, more research is required to ensure culturally competent care. It is normal and acceptable to ask questions of a few providers when looking for a provider to find the right fit.
Final Thoughts —
Although it may not be possible to totally eliminate seasonal depression or anxiety, some of the suggestions above can help to lessen those emotions at such a trying period for millions of Americans.
Even though things aren’t perfect, you can enjoy the holiday season by acknowledging feelings of discomfort and taking action to address them.
Suave Concierge’s professionals can help you with improving your heart health over holidays. So, get started by contacting us right away!
