BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – The holiday season is frequently viewed as a time of gathering with family and friends, filled with joy, love and companionship. However, for some people, holidays like Thanksgiving can instead bring people grief and loneliness.
Despite the isolating emotions the holiday season can bring, there are some things to keep in mind that may ease feelings like grief or loneliness.
While your fur-babies might be begging for food at the Thanksgiving table, it’s important to know that many of the savory items on the list are deemed toxic and unsafe for dogs to eat.(MGN (Custom credit) | MGN Image (Credit))
Experts say it’s important to acknowledge those emotions instead of pushing them to the side. They recommend taking the day at your own pace and finding small ways to connect.
Dr. Josh Klapow, a psychologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), says that it’s important for people feeling that way to know they don’t have to suffer alone. Reaching out to a friend, a church member or a mental health professional can make a meaningful difference.
“Use the means to connect with people,” said Klapow. “It’s not the same as being there in person, but a video call, or even a text message, can help. Sometimes, I see people who are separated from their families for whatever reason, they’ll do a FaceTime call and just leave their camera on for the day.”
Kim and Jordy Henson seeing Gresa Sahatciu for the first time on Facetime.((Source: WBRC))
Klapow also says that if you know someone who is struggling during the holidays, give them a call or send a text to check in, small things like that can make a big difference.
Call 988, a national campaign, has a landing page on their website acknowledging how difficult the holidays can be for some people. You can learn more by clicking or tapping here.
You can also visit the Alabama Department of Mental Health by clicking or tapping here.
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