The Most Wonderful Time of the Year?
The holidays are a reminder of family, which can be a sore subject for a lot of reasons. This could be a yearly reminder of those that have passed, or those that have left. When we compare our families to others (thanks social media), and it doesn’t look like the Lifetime family (or if we don’t measure up in other ways), this can amplify those unpleasant feelings.
You Know… That Thing That’s Happening on November 5th…
The differences in political views, the directions that our future leaders could take us, could not be more different. I want to be in tune with the struggle that so many of us (including myself) have had during this difficult time. Uncertainty is driving us to respond in several ways, whether that be avoidance, feeling a lack of caring or powerlessness to engage in our civic duties, or unhealthy use of media (among many others).
Navigating the Post-Holiday Blues
But what happens in January and February when the holidays are over? When we take down the decorations, have unwrapped all the gifts, and are faced with a normal work week and a fridge full of leftovers. How can you navigate the disappointment and comedown that often happens after a bustling holiday season, looked forward to all year long?
Academic Burnout
The difference between the typical stress of the adjustment period of starting a new school year and burnout is how long these symptoms accumulate without adequate strategies or support for coping with the stress. If people are not able to successfully cope, they can end up suffering mentally, physically, and emotionally for months or years on end, which is not sustainable to our wellbeing.