1. Presented by Debra Benbow FNP-BC, PhD (c)
HOLIDAY BLUES
Presented by Debra Benbow FNP-BC, PhD (c)

2. Objectives At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to
Recognize signs and symptoms of Holiday Blues.
Discuss appropriate interventions to avoid or minimize Holiday Blues
Heighten self and team awareness regarding Holiday Blues among consumers and professionals

3. Why the BLUES? Pressure to feel merry Remembrances of holidays past
Reminders of loved ones lost
Loneliness 
Financial hardship
In search of the sunlight…..ie the time change

4. Why the BLUES? (cont) Increased alcohol use Overeating Lack of sleep
Overscheduling 
Lack of planning 
Unrealistic expectations about families
Unrealistic fantasies about ourselves
Lack of exercise 
Lack of time for oneself 

5. Signs and Symptoms Headaches Excessive drinking Overeating
Loss of appetite
Insomnia
Stress
Fatigue
Crying spells
Unrealistic expectations
Sadness
Financial stress
Inability to communicate
Anger
Inability to focus
Restless
Feeling blue

6. Beating Holiday Blues Stick to normal routines as much as possible
Get enough sleep or rest
Take time for yourself, but don’t isolate yourself
Eat and drink in moderation and don’t drink alcohol if you are feeling down
Get exercise, even if it’s only taking a short walk
Take off days from work

7. Beating Holiday Blues Make a to-do list and keep things simple
Set reasonable expectations and goals for holiday activities such as shopping, cooking, entertaining, attending parties or sending holiday cards
Set a financial budget for holiday activities….stick to it!
Listen to music
Remember that holiday blues are short-term, so be patient and take things week by week and day by day

8. Beating Holiday Blues Be reasonable with your schedule
Decide upon your priorities and stick to them.
Organize your time
Don't expect the holidays to be the same (when you were a child)
Volunteer to serve holiday dinner at a homeless shelter.
Plan unstructured, low-cost fun holiday activities:
Give yourself a break; create time for yourself
Let go of perfectionism and the need for control
Don't try to be someone you are not 
Don't try to be a saint 
Don't romanticize past holidays 
Don't lose sight of the true message of the holidays 

9. References

10. Questions…..Comments…..
Laugh Enjoy Relax
HAPPY HOLIDAYS