NORFOLK, Va. -- The holidays are typically known for bright lights, cheerful music and spending time with loved ones.
But counselor Danielle Jweid told News 3 it is not easy for everyone.
"When we don't live up to the expectations of all the merriment, especially this year when not everybody is going to be able to get together,” Jweid explained, “that's some good source of holiday blues."
Each person has their own reasons why they may be upset, and how they cope may not be the best.
"Excessive drinking, excessive eating, being too alone - things like that can encourage the holiday blues,” she said.
She also said if someone does not get help or support, their situation could get worse.
"Maybe the symptoms are a little bit more serious and it's moving towards something more clinical, like clinical depression,” Jweid said. “That would be a time to get some professional help."
She added the pandemic is also contributing to the holiday blues. She said she noticed more feelings of sorrow, but also anger.
Someone may feel trapped in the cycle of sorrow and sadness, but Jweid offers the following tips.
"One of the biggest things is to stay active, and that goes a long way with any down feelings,” Jweid said. “Connecting with other people, of course, this is a time of connection and finding ways to do that."
Friends and family can also help - even virtually.
"A lot of times, people will hide that,” Jweid explained. “So, just being aware and being kind around that and having that open space to talk - that's important."
