The holidays are a pretty special time in the Reynolds house.  Like many of you, we have certain traditions that are really important to us.  We like to get a live Christmas tree the Sunday after Thanksgiving.  The guys of the house are in charge of the outside decorations while I'm in charge of creating the holidays cards (though we all have to work together to get them assembled and out of the door).   There is the baking of cookies on Christmas Eve and watching funny holiday movies.   At the core of these silly rituals, however, is the focus on creating memories focused on family relationships.

As I think about this holiday time of the year, I'm reminded of the importance of all kinds of relationships.  So many of us spend significant time and money to travel across the country to be with family and friends.  At the office, we attend parties, participate in workplace "White Elephant" or "Secret Santa" gift exchanges, and decorate with holiday cards received from business associates across the world.  All of these rituals are designed to enhance our relationships with each other.  

Even with all the tools that enable us to easily communicate with people around the world (telephone, email, social media, video game systems, FaceTime), there is something so special about how we connect during the holidays through our traditions.  I truly believe that engaging in these silly and trivial events this time of year can reinforce our genuine support systems.  And as we all know, we need these systems - they are a crucial component for good behavioral health.  

However, we also know many in our community experience loneliness and disconnection this time of year.   A recent CBS News story highlighted that "many Americans are lonely, and younger adults appear to be hardest hit" ( https://www.cbsnews.com/news/many-americans-are-lonely-and-gen-z-most-of-all-study-finds/).  They don't feel they have close relationships or traditions to celebrate during the holidays.

So, maybe it's time for you to add some new traditions this year.  As you celebrate the holidays, make the effort to reach out to the people around you who may be feeling lonely.  Simple things like inviting them to bake cookies, attend a party or an event will not only brighten their holiday, but yours as well.  Because the best holiday gift we can give each other is time together.  

And, if you are having a tough time and experiencing those feelings of loneliness, think about ways you can connect to others.  Step outside your comfort zone by volunteering or taking up a new hobby.  If nothing else, please call the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay by dialing 2-1-1. You can speak with someone and connect to support 24 hours a day, even during the holiday season.

Wishing you and yours togetherness, peace and love,

Clara