ComiCentric Issue 83: “Holiday Seasons are upon us. Are you ok? “
The holiday season often comes earlier and earlier every year. And as soon as spooky season is over it happens the conjuring images of joy, celebration, warmth and Mariah Carey. However, for many, it can also bring a complex tapestry of emotions, from nostalgia to stress. Amid festive decorations and cheerful companions, the question, “Are you okay?” becomes a silent anthem, echoing the unspoken struggles that accompany this time of year. And you haven’t even taken a bite of Turkey yet.
The holidays can be a separation between a blend of merry gatherings and poignant reflections. While surrounded by loved ones and festive cheer, some individuals may grapple with feelings of loneliness, grief, or the weight of one’s expectations. The question, though simple, can become a lifeline, an invitation to share one’s emotional landscape in a season often painted with expectations of unbridled happiness. In a time when we are all supposed to be ok. It’s ok not to be ok.
In a time when we are all supposed to be ok. It’s ok not to be ok.
During these holidays asking about someone’s mental health is not just a casual query; it’s an acknowledgment of the nuanced nature of mental health during the holidays. We may not say it the rest of the year, but it recognizes that amidst the festivities, some may be navigating personal storms. The bustling energy of the season can amplify the sense of isolation for those struggling, making it an opportune moment to extend empathy.
Asking this question during the holidays carries a unique significance. Perhaps the best gift you can give your friends, colleagues and well-wishers is just to open the door for dialogue, a chance for these individuals to express their feelings without the fear of judgment. It transforms the holiday narrative from a curated display of joy to a shared acknowledgment of the diverse emotional landscapes that coexist during this time.
So, is it a good time to ask? Absolutely. In the midst of holiday celebrations, the question “Are you okay?” serves as a reminder that mental health is a continuous journey, not bound by seasons. It encourages a culture of compassion, reminding us that behind the twinkling lights and festive cheer, and your grandma’s secret canned cranberries. There are human stories, each deserving acknowledgment and understanding.