In our latest interview with Sue Morrison, a certified addiction and mental health counsellor and Bullet Point News’ Mental Health Correspondent, we explore the mental health challenges many may face during the holiday and winter seasons.
While the holidays are often portrayed as a time filled with celebrations, warm family gatherings, delicious meals, and abundant gift-giving and receiving, this is not the reality for many in our community.
Morrison addresses the notion of idyllic holiday experiences, often presented through television, movies, and social media, emphasizing that it’s not abnormal to feel down. “Societal expectations of this perfect holiday can leave us a bit disappointed,” she explains.
Self-acceptance and self-compassion are crucial. “A big thing is setting healthy boundaries,” Morrison shares. “Let go of expectations of what we think we should be like and instead just be who we are and accept ourselves.”
She also acknowledges the struggles people may face this time of year, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and loneliness. Grief can also be amplified, especially when facing the first holiday without a recently departed loved one.
Morrison highlights the importance of talking to someone who will listen, understand, and accept us for who we are, whether a friend, family member, or professional. Doing so provides a healthy opportunity to express, discuss, and embrace our feelings, emotions, and expectations.
Shifting the conversation to the winter blues and seasonal depression, Morrison explains the physiological changes occurring as days get shorter and darker. She recommends practical solutions, such as taking vitamin D supplements and exploring light therapy, to combat the effects of reduced sunlight.
Exercise, sufficient sleep, outdoor activities, and embracing the weather rather than staying indoors and wishing it were over can also prove beneficial for mental health during the winter months.
The full interview is below. For anyone seeking additional information or help, Morrison invites them to visit her White Brick Therapy website where they can schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
