That’s OK.

It’s not uncommon to feel down during the holidays. In fact, according to National Alliance on Mental Health, a 2021 study found that 3 in 5 Americans feel their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays. This is especially true when we have lost loved ones, feel lonely or are just going through a tough time.

How can we help? The holiday season is the perfect time to reach out to others. There may be family members or friends who are feeling down and could use a phone call, handwritten card or visit. Check in with them and ask how they are doing. This could be a “pick-me-up” for ourselves as well.

Making connections through social activities can help ease grief and loneliness. If you are feeling down, try to get out and go to a family member’s home, even if you’re not feeling up to it. Feeling connected can do wonders for our mood. Other ways to have social time include attending church services and neighborhood activities, volunteering at a local food pantry, going to city events or inviting a couple of friends over to watch a movie. If you know someone else who may need some social time, invite that person to come along.

Another way to ease the loneliness and sadness during the holidays is to be a friend to someone who is alone. Senior citizens are especially vulnerable to isolation. Is there anyone in your neighborhood, place of work, school or community who may need a friend or someplace to go for Christmas dinner? Reaching out will help the other person as well as yourself.

Joining in on volunteer opportunities can bring some joy into our lives. There are a variety of local organizations that help others during this time. Serving with them can ease some of our own negative feelings. Food pantries and senior citizens’ centers come to mind as places where help may be needed. Some other local ideas include AFSP Utah, The Refuge Utah, Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry and Community Action Services & Food Bank.

Most importantly, don’t feel guilty for not feeling merry, and don’t fear that you’re missing out if you skip that party this year. There are times in our lives that are just plain hard. It’s OK to not celebrate.

During this season, let’s resolve to do what we can to bring peace and comfort to those who are grieving or going through difficult times. If we are the ones who are struggling, let others know we might need a little extra light and warmth this year.