MANAGING HOLIDAY BLUES

DO follow the three basics for good health:  

      *Eat right

      *Get plenty of rest

      *Exercise regularly

DO set realistic goals:            

      *Organize your time

      *Make lists

      *Prioritize

      *Make a budget and follow it.

DO let go of the past and create new and different ways to celebrate.

DO allow yourself to feel sad, lonely or melancholy -- these are normal feelings, particularly at holiday times.

DO something for someone else.

DO  enjoy activities that are free.

DO spend time with new people or a different set of friends or family.

DO contact someone with whom you've lost touch.

DO give yourself a break--plan to prepare (or buy) one special meal , purchase one special gift, and take in one special event. The rest can be ordinary, but will seem special because of the time of year and the people you're with.

DO treat yourself as a special holiday guest.

                                         The DON'TS of managing holiday blues:

DON'T drink too much alcohol.

DON'T overindulge in holiday foods, espeically those that are high in sugar and fat.

DON'T have unrealistic expectations of yourself or others.

DON'T dwell on the past.

DON'T focus on what you don't have.

DON'T spend money you don't have.

Sources: Heather Raznick, MSW, LCSW, St John's Mercy Medical Center, St. Louis, MO

              University of Maryland Medical Center