Feeling sad is a natural part of life and can even be good for us at times. Ani Halvadzhiyan, a psychologist and psychotherapist with a background in PR and show business, has dedicated years to helping people manage their emotions and find balance. In this article, she shares her thoughts on why many feel low after the holidays, how to cope with stress, and the importance of accepting our emotions.
A Time for Reflection
According to Halvadzhiyan, holidays are not only a time for celebration but also for introspection. Yet, there’s often an unspoken pressure to be happy, which can create feelings of inadequacy if we fail to meet those expectations. She argues that we need to normalize sadness as part of life.
In the animated film Inside Out, emotions like Joy, Sadness, and Anxiety are personified, teaching a valuable lesson for both children and adults.
“Running away from sadness also means shutting off other emotions,” Halvadzhiyan explains. “We need to learn to accept sadness and allow ourselves to experience it without guilt.”
Seasonal Depression and Winter Darkness
Winter often brings shorter days and less sunlight, which can lead to seasonal depression. Halvadzhiyan highlights that this is a real condition that can be alleviated with simple measures like taking vitamin D. Being aware of how the seasons affect our well-being is essential, she says.
Stress and Holiday Overload
The holidays are often associated with preparation and stress, which can take a toll on our mental health. “We exhaust ourselves with all the expectations and obligations,” says Halvadzhiyan. She shares her personal strategy: retreating from the chaos to take care of herself.
“Holidays should be a time for rest and recovery, but we often forget that.”
Setting Goals and Reflecting for the New Year
Setting goals and reflecting on the past year can help provide structure and motivation. However, Halvadzhiyan emphasizes that goals need to be realistic and aligned with our values and needs. They must not come at the expense of our physical or mental health.
“Plans only work if they resonate with our authentic selves,” she notes. “It’s about knowing who we are and what we truly need.”
World Events and Mental Health
Global events like the pandemic and the war in Ukraine have increased anxiety levels, which Halvadzhiyan describes as the hallmark condition of our time. Many of her clients express fears about the future and their place in an uncertain world.
The Price of Loneliness
Loneliness is another factor that impacts mental health, especially in big cities where social distance can feel tangible. We live in an individualistic society, which offers freedom but removes the support that comes with larger families or communities. In other parts of the world, such as in Eastern cultures, the collective is often prioritized over the individual, creating a sense of togetherness but at the cost of personal freedom.
Halvadzhiyan believes loneliness is often rooted in fear, anxiety, or unresolved trauma. She encourages us to connect with others and form new relationships, even when it feels difficult.
Taking Care of Yourself
Finally, Halvadzhiyan underscores the importance of prioritizing one’s mental health and well-being. By accepting all emotions—both joy and sadness—and practicing self-care, we can create better balance in life.
“Feeling sad is not wrong,” she concludes. “It’s part of being human, and by facing our emotions, we can grow as individuals.”
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