Its been a little over a year since we all went through Helene and this year has also brought to some of us other stresses and uncertainty.  We need to recognize that this holiday season can still be different from those before Helene.  The holiday season can be a time of happiness and cheer. It can also be a time of stress for those who have suffered loss or are under other stressors.  Some may have had major changes to their lives from work to home.  Many may still not have a home to decorate or the familiar decorations to put up.  Others may be missing family members, whether due to the storm, being displaced and not back here or there may be other reasons they aren’t with us this year.  With all these differences, you still may not feel like celebrating this year as you used to do.

This year you may still need to just do what you can and remember to “take a deep breath”.  Be kind to yourself and family.  You might need to scale down what you plan to do and be mindful of what energy you have.  Remember these tips and if you really need it, ask your doctor or therapist for more intensive help.

• Be patient with yourself as you continue to heal.
• Let your feelings out. To feel better in the long run, you need to take time to grieve and cry. Do not push your feelings away or hide them.
• Recognize that each of us reponded to the situation differently or may still be coming back from the affects.
• Try not to overindulge in drinking or eating to escape your stress.
• Be sure to get enough rest and sleep. Sleep can help to relieve stress.
• Spend time with family and friends during the holiday season. Do not isolate yourself.
• But remember, you don’t need to overdo it as well with getting together.
• Remember to think about what is important in life. Take time to look forward to the future, but remember to live in the present.
• Acknowledge that you have been through a significant event and we all may need more time to heal.

Additional tips for coping with the holiday after experiencing a disaster or other loss:

• Reach out for support. If you are feeling lonely or isolated, contact your doctor or other local resources.
• Do something, no matter how small, for yourself each day.
• Maintain as normal of a schedule as possible.

When is it time to seek more help?Signs that it may be too much to handle on your own and you may need extra help are if you are going through any of the following:

• Trouble working or taking care of family
• Heavy drinking or any use of drugs
• Trouble with falling or staying asleep, or experiencing nightmares
• Trouble enjoying life
• Feelings of fear, guilt, or denial
• Difficulty with solving problems or concentrating
• Loss of or increase in appetite
• Any other negative symptoms that interfere with getting through the day.

Be sure to embrace your memories.

Holidays are a great time to think about the past. Be sure to take the time to share your memories with family and friends. Some memories bring laughter, and some bring sadness, and it is okay to laugh and cry. Be sure to think about the positive things in your life. Even finding a few positives can improve your mood and energy.  Remember to surround yourself with people that support you and look to each other to help maneuver through when it gets a little tough this year.