Be Mindful of Your Friends’ Feelings During the Holidays

Lights, decorations, and presents are all part of the holiday season, but many people have feelings of negativity during this time of year.

Along with the joy and festive feelingsthat we experience some may be hiding in the corner, not going out, or not connecting because they are dealing with deep feelings of depression or change in their life. You should understand the signs of someone dealing with a difficult situation and be mindful of what they are going through.

Feelings of Grief from a Recent Loss

Do you have friends that have lost a loved one this year? If so, this could be the first of a holiday without them, which can be extremely difficult. Many of our holiday traditions center around everyone doing their part, but a part is now missing. Ask your friends what they need from you and let them tell you how you can help.

Questions of Sexual Identity

You may have some friends that are feeling anxious because they plan to talk to their family about their sexual orientation which might not align with the traditions of the family. The holidays can be a good time to talk about this decision, but also a difficult one. Help your friends by being supportive and reminding them of their worth that isn’t associated with their sexual preference.

Feelings of Depression Caused by Financial Insecurity

Not everyone has the disposable income to cover the extra costs of gift-giving during the holiday season. This is not the time to make someone feel bad about their income situation. One way to show you understand is to set up a gift exchange among friends which can reduce the number of presents being bought. A suggestion of handmade presents or goodies could be perfect for the friend that’s feeling financially strapped.

Missing Family Due to a Recent Move

If you have friends or family that have moved away to a new culture or new city and can’t be with their family this year, they could be experiencing the feelings that come with missing loved ones. If you have some of these people in your circle, invite them to be part of your holiday celebration. Invite more than one person from outside your normal circle to help them feel more comfortable.

Is Your Friend Recently Sober

The feelings of anxiety, depression, loss, and frustration can raise their ugly heads more during the holidays than any other time of year. If you have a friend that’s recently sober, these feelings might send them back to drinking or drugs. Help them by trying to involve some traditions that they can enjoy that won’t involve alcohol. This is a good chance for them to step away and regain control over their feelings.

Feelings that Come with a Change in the Family

Every family goes through hardships and has changes that come along the way. Married couples sometimes separate, some family members move away, and some become institutionalized. When the family structure has changed, you need to help your friend deal with their feelings by being present to listen and help them cope with the challenges of these changes.

Anxiety Because Home is a Source of Trauma

Do you have a friend that has overcome childhood trauma to become a success? If so, they’re likely going to be apprehensive about going home during the holidays and might not want to go at all. Help them out by inviting them to join your family or friends’group during this time so they know they have a way to enjoy theholidays without going back to a troublesome home.

Feelings Associated with Mental Health Challenges

Receiving a diagnosis of a mental health challenge can be disheartening, beating it can be empowering. If you have a friend currently dealing with mental health challenges, help them by being aware of their tendencies. You can help them by suggesting small ways that everyone can be understanding and caring during the holidays.

Feelings Matter; Be There for Your Friends and Family

You never know exactly what others are going through and how they will respond to various situations. We know that many feelings of depression and loss come to the surface during the holidays. Make it easier for your friends and family to have an amazing holiday by being there to support them how they need to and offer your care and companionship that might be exactly what will make the holiday season a bright one for someone else.