Psychiatrists have named ways to combat seasonal holiday sadness

The holidays are meant to be a time of togetherness and joy. However, for those who have recently experienced loss or trauma, this time of year can bring additional sadness. It is for them that mental health experts shared tips for overcoming difficulties.

During the holidays, people have fun, but what do you do when things don’t work out due to a loss or just burnout? People experience seasonal sadness.

“This condition can be associated with many things, such as the loss of a loved one or bad memories from the past,” mental health expert Alisha Tagert told Fox News.

While recovering from a loss of happiness “isn’t a one-size-fits-all process,” she said, there are ways to cope with moments that cause intense sadness.

Tagert noted that grief is typically experienced as sadness in response to the loss of a person or thing, but it can also include a range of other emotions that can take people by surprise.

“Grief is made up of internal thoughts and feelings as well as external behaviors,” she explains. “They are not experienced in a linear fashion, which is why grief can take people by surprise.”

That’s why it’s important to identify your needs and respect them by communicating clearly with others, said therapist Christine Slomski. You may need to let friends and family know in advance how they can come see you, from offering a hug to simply giving you your space.

At the same time, people who feel sad during the holidays should prepare for the difficult moments that will undoubtedly occur, especially since everyone else seems so happy. For times when conversations arise that may bring up grief or other unpleasant emotions, Slomski suggested having a few polite phrases on hand to give a brief answer and then redirect the conversation.

It’s also worth identifying ways to respond to emotional pain so you’re better equipped to deal with it, Slomski says.

“Find healthy alternatives to cope with sadness. Calling a friend for coffee and chat can strengthen your connection, a walk in the sun can release serotonin and clear emotional cobwebs, and prayer and meditation can calm your nervous system and bring you back to life,” advised Slomski.

If you’re feeling a rush of grief while in a place where you can’t quickly escape, she recommended taking a few deep breaths to relieve stress. To make sure you have a “built-in support system,” experts suggested talking to those important to the person, finding out their holiday plans and making time to see them ahead of time.

“It’s normal to feel a little off or sad during the holidays—don’t be afraid to share that with your loved ones so they can better understand and support you during this time of year,” comments the New York-based CEO and mental health app founder Maggie Rose Mlakar.

Joining a support group can be a little nerve-wracking at first, but finding the right group can help you feel understood and comforted, experts suggest.

“Surrounding yourself in a confidential and safe space with other people who can understand what you are going through is like a breath of fresh air during anxious or difficult times,” said Maggie Rose Mlakar

Experts also urge people experiencing seasonal sadness to take their time, as healing is a process, not a problem to be fixed or solved.

“Give yourself self-compassion, gentleness, and time to be with your feelings and needs this season,” experts urge.