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Viewfinder reporters asked Grand View students about how the holidays make them feel.  Here’s what they had to say:

However, if you noticed that you sometimes feel more like the Grinch or Scrooge during the holidays, you’re not the only one.

Between 10 and 20 percent of people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SADS, according to American Family Physician website. SADS is a form of depression that people experience when the seasons change. For those who are already feeling low due to the changing of season, the added pressure of the holiday season can lead to the “holiday blues.”

“People, during the holidays, remember loved ones that they’ve lost,” Grand View counselor, Kenlyn Gordon said. “Some people don’t have loved ones to celebrate holidays with. …after holidays too, it can feel like all the fun is over and then they have a long stretch of winter to get through.” In addition to family related stress, Gordon said, “people may experience financial stressors.”

Gordon offered some useful tips to surviving the holiday season:

• The tendencies to hibernate need to be limited.
• Stay connected to hobbies and things you enjoy as much as you can.
• Make a plan for yourself, take a break when you’re with your family during the holidays.
• Make sure your sleep cycle stays consistent, exercise, eat right.
• Stay deliberate and schedule activities that help you stay healthy.
• We live in a culture of gift giving, however, try to only spend within your means. If you’re struggling financially, gift things that don’t cost money but that show that you care. Focus on having experiences with people as oppose to monetary gifts.

In addition to Gordon’s tips, WebMD also offers “19 tips for coping with holiday stress and depression.” Some of these include:

• Be realistic about what you can and cannot do
• If you are lonely, try volunteering some time to help others
• Keep track of your holiday spending
• Make time for yourself
• Make time to contact a long-lost friend or relative
• Try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a new way.