Tips from Cerner: Defeat the Holiday Blues

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This season leaves millions of people blue, not joyful. Contributing factors include:

  • Family members who live far away.
  • Memories of a loved one who has passed away.
  • Financial problems.
  • Fatigue and feelings of being overwhelmed by tasks and obligations associated with the holidays.
  • Idealistic expectations.


Some ways to prevent the holiday blues include the following.

  • Begin holiday preparations well in advance, to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
  • Delegate chores like writing greeting cards or baking cookies to other members of the household.
  • Don’t drink alcohol if it makes you moody and depressed.
  • Don’t expect everything—food, decorations, family get-togethers—to be perfect for the holidays.
  • Don’t spend beyond your budget.
  • If keeping old holiday traditions is painful, start new ones.
  • If you expect to be alone for the holidays, don’t wait to be invited somewhere; invite people over.


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