Alleviate holiday blues by counting your blessings
by Lisa Healy

Dear Lisa,
Due to extenuating circumstances, I can’t go home over the Thanksgiving holiday break. I know this sounds silly, but how do I cope with being stuck here all alone?
Signed, Holiday Blues.

Dear Holiday Blues,

I don’t think your question sounds silly at all. Did you know that emergency rooms have an increase in depressed and suicidal patients around the holidays? You are not alone in feeling blue, even though knowing that might not make you feel any better.

The best thing that you can do, and I know you’ve probably heard this before, is to concentrate on the things you have to be thankful for. I don’t know you, but I can tell you have at least two things for which you should be grateful. It’s kind of nice having a home and family to miss, don’t you think? Lots of folks out there are depressed because they have no family or home.

Your second blessing is that you are in college. Although there is a lot of grumbling and complaining from students about various aspects of VWC, you are pretty lucky to be here. For many people, both young and old, college is only something they dream about.

The next step for kicking the holiday blues is to shift the focus from yourself. Plan to make Thanksgiving fulfilling for someone else. Call the public editor for the Virginian-Pilot and find out in what section and on which day the volunteer connection is printed. I’m sure that there are many churches and non-profit organizations that would love to have your help. The experience will be rewarding, and you’ll feel good about yourself.

Remember, you’re still going to miss home. However, look at your situation in a positive manner. You’re missing someone, but they are also missing YOU!

Here is a suggestion for commuter students and faculty. If you know a student who has no place to go on Thanksgiving Day, invite that person over for your holiday celebration. There’s always room for one more.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

If you have suggestions for those who have sent in questions, I’d love to hear from you. Please leave questions or comments in my mailbox near the Marlin Chronicle office.