The holidays can trigger a lot of negative emotions for many. The holidays can trigger grief and loss on many levels. Here are some examples: someone who just lost someone (spouse, parent, family member, baby or pets), a recent divorce, a recent break up, dysfunctional families, recent relocation, people who share custody and will not have their children, etc., These tough times can highlight the losses and changes in people’s lives, which can cause depression and anxiety around the holidays. We can help by checking in on that person, inviting them out, accepting their space, being mindful of our comments, suggesting they create new traditions, and sharing this blog. 

Here are some new traditions

• Do nothing, that’s RIGHT. You don't have to do anything. That’s your RIGHT!!
• Travel
• Eat at a new restaurant
• Celebrate the holiday early
• Order out versus cooking
• Allow someone else to host the holiday celebration 
• Add a new tradition (go to the movies, matching pajamas, games, cookie decorating, build gingerbread houses, karaoke, etc.,)
• Visit family or friends near or far that you haven't seen in a while. 

-Shareela Allen, LCSW