Beating the holiday blues Published Nov. 28, 2007 ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- - Establish realistic goals and expectations for the holiday season. Do not assume the holiday season will cure all past problems. The holidays do not prevent sadness or loneliness. - Refrain from drinking. Drinking will only intensify any problems or tensions. Alcohol is a depressant and will only worsen depression. - If you have lost someone dear to you and will grieve their loss this Christmas, don't "run" from the pain. Consider creating a ritual to help you deal with your pain. Try lighting a candle in honor of your loved one and share something about them with someone close to you. This ritual might help you deal with the fact that your loved one is no longer with you, while at the same time allow you to ensure that their memory lives on. - Do not feel obligated to feel festive. Accept your inner feelings and do not force yourself to express specific feelings. - Spend time with supportive and caring people. Anticipate and avoid Situations where you know you will be uncomfortable. Don't isolate yourself. If you anticipate being lonely, plan to join with friends to celebrate Christmas. - Rediscover your faith. This holiday season can be an opportunity to rediscover the basics and truths behind faith. - Most of all, do what makes you happy whether it is holiday-related or not. - Pace yourself and organize your time. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Be realistic about what you can and can not do. Don't put the entire focus on just one day; remember it is a season of holiday sentiment and activities that can be spread out to lessen stress. - Remember the holiday season does not banish reasons for feeling sad and lonely; there is room for these feelings to be present. - Try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a new way or make your own traditions. - Save time for yourself. Recharge your batteries and let others share responsibility of activities. - Don't overindulge in holiday foods or skip exercise. - Don't dwell on the past or what you don't have. Look toward the future. - Do something for someone else. Try volunteering some time to help others. - Spend time with new people or a different set of friends. Contact someone with whom you have lost touch.