by Mark D. Lerner, Ph.D.
Clinical & Forensic Psychologist
The holiday season is here—a joyous time of year! The holidays present an opportunity to come together with family and friends to share experiences of the past and dreams for the future.
For those who have experienced challenges and change, this time of year may hardly feel joyous. Inordinate stress can cast a dark shadow over the colors of the season. Although many people will benefit from the opportunity to connect with others, far too many people will feel so alone.
Whatever happens to us during peak emotional experiences, the gifts and losses of life become etched in our minds forever. During this holiday season, the season of emotion, let's listen and be there for our friends and loved ones. It’s generally not what we say that helps the most; it’s often what we don’t say.
This holiday season, let's empower people to harness their painful emotional energy and use it to propel themselves toward making adaptive, goal-directed decisions—promoting emotional wellness.