It's The Most Wonderful Time, Or Is It?

Around October, most people start getting into the holiday spirit. You begin to see pumpkins, colorful leaves, and Halloween decorations. That is usually when many people begin thinking about Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day festivities. One would believe this is the most wonderful time of the year, as the song says. This is far from the truth. Many people, in fact, hate this time of year, adults and children. For adults, it can be stressful thinking about how to purchase everything their children want in addition to taking care of regular monthly expenses without additional income for that month. For some children, the two weeks home could mean that they are having to face the unsettling reality of their lives, including lack of food, love, etc. Individuals who have lost loved ones truly dread the holiday season because their loved ones are no longer here on Earth. My daughters and I experienced this feeling on Thanksgiving and Christmas of 2023 after the loss of my husband and their dad, my father-in-law and their grandfather, and our first cousin.

I learned years ago that everyone is happy about this time of year and to respect those who do have those moments. I used to have a countdown on my board when I worked at the middle school until a student told me that it gave him anxiety every time he came to talk to me. Once I discovered why, I erased the countdown and stopped showing my happiness for this season. Now, whenever an extended break is coming, I tell students to practice self-care. This is the season we need to show grace and mercy to ourselves and others. This is not the time to judge others and call the "Grinch." It is the time to show empathy and compassion to one another. Use this to self-reflect on how far you have come and how much you have accomplished this year. Use this time to try serving/volunteering in your community; no act is too small. When we serve, it allows us to take our focus off of our situations and focus on bringing others joy. When serving this season, even if only one time, think about the joy you experience. Be kind to your mind and your neighbor.

Sincerely,

Katrina Chesney, MSW, LSW