Happen to run across this list (with some DJ editing) in RollingOut.com...Some of these are just plain-old common sense, and some may be items you never really thought about before.  Either way, if you're struggling with sadness, don't just read these, DO some!

1. Stay prayerful.  Communicating with God is a great way to redirect your holiday blues. So stop to reflect on the True meaning of Christmas.  And if you need help in that area, just watch Linus' Bible reading of Luke 2 on the Charlie Brown Christmas special.

2. Give back. Volunteering for a church or non-profit organization helping those less fortunate than you is a sure way to realize how blessed you are and to be a blessing to someone else.

 3. Treat yourself regularly. A day at a Spa is a sure way to take some of the edge off of the approaching holiday season. Or even a haircut.  Seems to work well for my son, Sean. (Buzzcut in December?  Really?)

 

4. Change your surroundings. Travel to a new city or country to change the usual holiday atmosphere.

5. Do something different. Create a new, meaningful tradition with your family.

6. Do something silly. Find your inner clown. Anything that makes you smile is good medicine.  

8. Avoid negative people and/or negative talk. These are things that zap your energy and usually add more stress.

9. Journal. Keeping a personal journal is a great way to sort through and process the emotions you are experiencing.

10. Work it out. As in exercise. Physical activity releases Endorphins (natural pain and stress fighters). 

Wow, I feel happier already!