“All your feelings this season are valid. This holiday season can bring up a variety of emotions. Wherever you’re at, it’s valid! Take it one day at a time,” states a recent American Foundation for Suicide Prevention social media post.

We may think that something is serious wrong with us if we’re feeling down during the holidays. But, in fact, according to the 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.

So, if this isn’t the merriest of times for you, you’re not alone, and it’s OK to feel a bit down. Most importantly, this is a time to take care of ourselves and remember that if it feels best to skip that holiday party, that’s OK. There are times in our lives that are just plain hard. It’s OK to not celebrate.

For those of us who are feeling merry, let’s resolve to watch out for those who may be struggling and reach out in kindness and love. There may be family members or friends who could use a phone call, a handwritten card or a visit. Check in 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. Even when you’re feeling a bit like the Grinch, try to get out to a family member’s home. 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 or city event, or even 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.

Older adults 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 ourselves.

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. Joining up 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.

During this season, let’s seek out those who may need some extra light and warmth and 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 that we might need a little extra light, warmth and sparkle this year.