‘Tis the magical season of joy and wonder, where holiday movies twinkle on silver screens, melodies of uplifting music dance the air, ovens tirelessly whip up delightful pastries and the enchanting spirit of gifts excite families.
Yet while all this merriment may fill your heart, not everyone may be harvesting that same enthusiasm whether it’s a friend, coworker, or family member, who is struggling or simply finding themselves in a less-than-jolly headspace. The holiday season can pose challenges for some. So, before you call someone a “grinch” take a minute to help someone with these gentle reminders for the upcoming holiday season:
- Some Might be Grieving a Loss During the Holidays
According to Memphis Communities in schools, a national poll found that nearly 40% of Americans had no interest in celebrating the holidays due to feelings of grief and loss. The holiday season is a time of year filled with traditions shared between loved ones which can make some people think of a person they are grieving. Whether they grew apart or they passed away, it can be a tough time. Extend a listening ear, allowing them the space to express their emotions. Sharing cherished memories of the person they miss or simply acknowledging the difficulty they face can provide solace.
- Mental Health Struggles
Mental illnesses are present throughout the year, however, for some it might spike during this time of year. A 2021 survey from NAMI. showed that 3 in 5 Americans feel their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays. If you know someone who is struggling, it’s important to be supportive and understanding. Be a good listener, check in on them, and tell them how much you love them. Perhaps you can encourage open conversations about their feelings and remind them that they are not alone. Expressing empathy and kindness can make a big difference.
- Financial Struggles
Those with tight budgets may find it challenging to afford extravagant gifts for their friends and family. It’s crucial to keep in mind that the essence of the holidays is rooted in the warmth of loved ones, rather than the price tag. Consider the charm of low-cost or homemade gifts, as they can often convey thoughtfulness and care just as effectively, if not more so, than their more expensive counterparts. Not only will the gift hold more value, but the person struggling financially won’t feel pressured to spend extravagantly.
- Different Religions/Cultures
No matter the holiday you’re celebrating, it’s important to be mindful of your audience. Not everyone celebrates the same way and chatting about your traditions might make others uncomfortable. Be considerate in what you share and how you respond when others discuss their holidays. With over 4,000 different religions worldwide, keeping an open mind is key—remember, diversity in celebrations is what makes this time so unique!
- Be Mindful of Your Conversations
This time of year, families rekindle. While family time is important, sometimes it can be stressful with fear of the ideas and opinions some family members may express that can have the potential to cause division. Here are some topics you might want to leave out of your holiday dinner: politics, delayed weddings, sexuality, gender, old family fights or scandals, religion, how someone dresses, how much or how little someone is eating, someone’s weight, and financial situations. Try to keep the conversation light and enjoy the quality time.
As we dive into the festivities, let’s also spread a generous dose of understanding and empathy. After all, the true magic of the season lies in the compassion we extend to one another.
