Joy During "Holiday Blues"

Are you experiencing "holiday blues?" It looks strange. But believe it or not, some people greet the holidays with a frown! Many people do feel depressed, anxious, or stressed during the Christmas season. They have trouble concentrating, no interest in activities, and mood fluctuations amid the cheer.

Why? A number of reasons may play a part, such as broken relationships, financial needs, physical sickness or tiredness, unfulfilled wishes, distance from loved ones etc.  

Here's the good news: you can beat the "holiday blues"!  Mostly, it's a matter of having the right mindset and spirit no matter what the circumstances. Here are some thoughts and suggestions:

1.   Know and celebrate the true meaning and "cheer" of Christmas.  Do you know it?

 "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11)

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)

2.   Money-wise, spend only what you have (not what you don't have!). Refuse to be intimidated by commercialism that often obscures the true reason of the season. Christmas is essentially about a Person - not about gifts, food, parties.  Avoid phony Christmas!

3.  Be open to and keep yourself busy with new activities, experiences, and hobbies that you enjoy.  A good therapy is to move beyond yourself by helping someone else in need.  Look after your physical fitness and diet.

4.  Be forward-looking. With prayer and extra discipline, you can learn from the mistakes of the past, let go of them, and create "new dreams" and "new hopes" for the future.

5.  Pray and know Christ better this holiday season. Read and meditate on Scripture.