The holiday season is upon us and for many, we see this as a means to be merry and be cheerful with fond memories.
However, the unfortunate reality is that not everyone will be in the best of moods. This time comes around and in the case of some folks, they tend to experience the opposite of joy this time of year.
In the perspective of students there are finals coming around weeks before the holidays and working during this time of year leads to immense stress. Though for some, the immense amount of advertisement and even the over-abundance of media talking about the season is overwhelming to think about.
The idea of Christmas music playing on radio stations before the thanksgiving holiday is one of these instances that some people will be affected by the seasonal mood shift as some may think to themselves that the holidays are upon them. For those that work, they may not be able to evade the music as department stores would already have decor and the music playing in the buildings and are even prepped right after Halloween is finished.
The initial feelings associated with individuals would vary that have emotional and mental impact to them.
“It can be a little depressing, especially [for people] like me, who don’t have a good relationship with my family. This time can be a little lonely and stressful. It’s not always bad, the holiday music and gingerbread make up for it,” said Emily Dejesus a math major.
Dejesus shared her thoughts on the holiday season means to her.
As someone who has been personally affected with it since the beginning of the pandemic, this has left an impact on the mood of this season though I try not to reflect any negativity to others. On the 19th of December 2020, I lost my grandfather to COVID-19. Due to the events of my father and I initially investigating the cause of his death, we were infected though we were asymptomatic to the effects, we couldn’t host the usual Christmas gathering that year. What happened afterwards was a difficult effort of my family communicating what to do with the house, which took till Summer of 2024 to gather important documents and personal belongings to sell the property.
“Finals week comes around this time; the sun sets early and some work shifts where they don’t get to see the sun. The holiday blues might get higher. It might get more difficult to see families, but those who have the abilities to have highlights from it,” said Emma McGalen a nursing major.
In all honesty, this is something that many people overlook as those who are busy with their personal life don’t always get to see their loved ones, and it’s unfortunate to hear this. It can be hard to go through this time, though it’s best to take the time to contact a good friend or a loved one as sometimes, having the time to speak with them can help alleviate the feeling of loneliness some may feel.
Though it’s best to do what you can and not overexert yourself as this time can sometimes bring a negative side with the pressures of life and the feeling of running out of time. You aren’t alone when dealing with these feelings as many share that same sentiment unfortunately. We should all remember to take a deep breath and be safe, not just for yourself, but for others who would want to see you this time of year. Especially for those who may have the best relations, or any family left, contact them and invite them to any gatherings you may be participating to bring them a little cheer. It could be the best gift they could receive for this time of year. Happy Holidays and best wishes for you this time of year.
