In the midst of the holiday hustle, remember that the heart of this holiday season is compassion. While December brings joy for many, it’s an emotionally challenging time for those struggling with loss, divorce or financial strain, casting a shadow on what is meant to be a festive time.
As you look around, you won’t have to search far to see there are people in pain all around you. We can do our part in uplifting humanity by extending care and support to others, making a world of difference to someone.

Here are a few ways to support others during the holiday season—and ways to support yourself if you’re grieving. 

Supporting Others
Compassionate Listening. Sometimes, the best gift we can give is the gift of listening. Letting someone share their feelings without judgment, advice or the need to be fixed can provide immense comfort by your presence alone. Show compassion by letting them know all their emotions are valid.

Inclusive Invitations. Invite those who may feel isolated to join in your festivities. A simple invitation can make a world of difference, offering a sense of belonging and warmth. Bonus points for you if you pick them up for the event.

Thoughtful Gestures. Small acts of kindness, whether it is a homemade meal, a handwritten note or a thoughtful gift, are simple gestures that show someone you care and are thinking of them. For example, if a friend is dealing with a difficult loss, offer to help them decorate their Christmas tree or otherwise help soften holiday traditions that might be feeling particularly lonely.
 
Extreme Self-Care
Establish Boundaries. Set realistic expectations. It’s okay to decline invitations, stay briefly or skip certain traditions if they feel overwhelming. Another year you may have more energy or desire to entertain, shop and decorate. This year, give yourself permission to opt out of any traditions that drain your energy. Prioritizing mental well-being over external pressures is a gift of self-compassion.

Gratitude Practice. Reflect daily on small moments of joy and positive aspects of your life. Gratitude, per Yale Professor Laurie Santos, boosts mood, lowers stress, strengthens your immune system and enhances well-being. Keep a gratitude journal, adding to it daily.

Mindful Moments. Whether it’s a quiet walk, meditation or a hot bath, taking moments to be present with yourself can provide a respite from holiday stress. These moments can also give you space to assess your holiday rituals and traditions. Consider how they align with your emotional state and adjust your activities accordingly.

Create Community. It is important to remember that you’re not alone in your struggle to find joy this time of year. Reaching out to others in the same boat as you and creating community with those who are struggling is mutually beneficial. Consider getting involved with a volunteer effort or community event. The impact of outreach can create a positive ripple effect.

Seek Professional Support. Sometimes, talking to a therapist or counselor can provide the necessary support to navigate through challenging emotions, and is a courageous step toward well-being.

As we navigate the delicate nuances of the holiday season, let’s remember that our shared humanity is a powerful source of comfort and strength. Take a moment to reach out, listen without judgment and offer warm connection on a deeper level. Through collective support and individual self-care, we can find reasons to celebrate, even in challenging times.

Crista Mathew is the owner and Tech Coach at Cereset Westport. Cereset is a brain technology that helps the brain to relax, rebalance and reset itself. In her personal experience with Cereset after a major loss, Mathew saw a vast improvement in quality of sleep, and mental focus; and felt more grounded, hopeful, and optimistic. Mathew opened the local Cereset office to make the gift of Cereset more accessible to others, believing many people today can benefit from restored hope, deep inner peace and the return of positive emotions. Connect at 203-557-3299 or [email protected], and refer to this article to receive 10% off an initial series (5 sessions) booked this month and completed by March 2024. See ad, page 7.