Coping with those holiday blues

Although the holidays are traditionally full of cheer, for some the holidays are a source of sadness, according to the Department of Mental Health.

The period between Thanksgiving and New Year's can offer unwanted reminders of loss-for example, the death of a loved one or a recent divorce.

A number of other factors can contribute to the "holiday blues," including troubled family relationships, fatigue, lack of sunlight, unrealistic expectations, images in the news or on the Internet, and financial constraints.

"The holidays come at the end of the year when people tend to evaluate what they have and have not done this year," said Dr. Tony Beliz, deputy director of the Department of Mental Health's Emergency Outreach Bureau. "If they feel they have not made significant progress, then they may feel a sense of loss. People struggling with the holiday blues may experience feelings of sadness, tension, stress, lack of sleep and energy, diminished interest in favorite activities, or excessive drinking or eating."

The department offers the following suggestions for coping with the holiday blues:

•Set reasonable goals. To avoid overextending during the holidays, plan ahead and stick to a budget.

•Have reasonable expectations. If the holidays are not perfect, that is okay. Be clear about what is really important.

•Get enough rest. Set aside personal, private time in order to relax and sleep during the holiday season.

•Avoid dwelling on the past. If unpleasant thoughts come up, find something else to do, such as taking a walk or visiting friends.

•Focus on the positive. Instead of worrying about what you did not get done in the past year, focus on all that is positive that has happened to you.

•Do not overindulge in alcohol or food. Enjoy holiday meals in moderation, because excessive drinking and eating will make you feel worse.

•Keep a sense of humor.

Fortunately, the holiday blues usually should lift within a couple of weeks after the holiday season ends. If you or someone you know

may have shown a marked change in energy patterns or struggles with thoughts of selfharm or suicide, it is advised to seek professional help immediately or contact the County of Los Angeles Department of Mental Health's ACCESS telephone line at (800) 854-7771.

The ACCESS Center is open 24 hours, seven days a week, including all holidays.