Five Myths About The Holiday Blues And How Can You Avoid Them: AdventHealth Chaplain Offers Advice From A Spiritual Care Point Of View

AdventHealth recently held events called “HOPE – Blue Christmas” at several of its Central Florida hospitals. The events were designed to honor loved ones who have recently passed away. “The holiday season can be particularly challenging without them, and we want to create a safe space for our team members and their immediate families to grieve,” said Gustavo Mujica, a chaplain manager at AdventHealth East Orlando. “We believe this sacred space will help each of us experience healing in a meaningful way.”  

AdventHealth has about 50 chaplains, throughout its Central Florida hospitals, who play a critical role in helping patients, family, and team members with pastoral care that is always available. "At AdventHealth, chaplains embody our mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ. They provide whole person care, nurturing the mind, body, and spirit to bring comfort and hope to those in need,” said Greg Ellis, vice president of mission & ministry for AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division. 

For many people, the holidays are a time filled with joy, hope and togetherness. However, for many others the holidays are not the most wonderful time of the year, but rather the most stressful time of the year, one filled with sadness and loss. In a 2014 study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness a majority of the more than 700 Americans surveyed, reported experiencing some form of what is commonly called the “holiday blues.”  

Despite the “holiday blues” being a well-known mental health phenomenon, Mujica said there are still many myths and misconceptions that sometimes make things more difficult on those dealing with them. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or distress, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential support, available 24/7. 

The download link above contains b-roll from two of the events as well as sound regarding common myths about the holiday blues, with Chaplain Gustavo Mujica, in English and Spanish. 

adventhealthorlandonews.com