Spring 2009 - Issue 5

The Silversword: Home > Chaminade Life > Tips for Handling the Holidays

Tips for Handling the Holidays

Darren Wong, Staff Writer

Living in the on-campus dorms can get very lonely, especially during the holidays. Fortunately, there are things students can do to help them from getting homesick during the holidays.

According to the Dr. June Yasuhara, Chaminade Director of Counseling, the biggest reason for students getting homesick during the holidays is because they do not plan anything to do. This means there will be more time to think about things — which means you will get more depressed.

To shake depression, there are things students can do during the Thanksgiving break. In the TGIF section in The Honolulu Advertiser paper there is listed events or places they can eat, such as craft fairs or good restaurants.

Another thing that is easy to do is cooking a simple turkey dinner. Yasuhara said that going out and buying a turkey breast and a box of stuffing is quick and easy to make.

She also said that students should check out the specials going on during “Black Friday,” the Friday that follows Thanksgiving. Tour the island, or visit the shopping malls, which will be crawling with holiday shoppers.

Yasuhara also suggested students can rent and watch a video or go and see a movie in the theaters. The holidays are usually the time for the best Hollywood releases.

The best way to counter homesick woes is to plan and schedule a designated meeting time with family and friends back at home, either online or by phone.

Students can also decorate their room with holiday features. And, find out who is staying in the dorms and, as Yasuhara advised, “Take advantage of all Hawaii has to offer.”

There are always special rates for hotels rooms, and traveling to the Neighbor Islands can be a good deal. Or, take the bus and circle the entire island — a cheap and fun thing to do. And if you’re missing the snow, the big island always has snow during the winter — on the top of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

“Plan what you’re going to do on the eves of the holidays, since these are the most depressing times if hometown family and friends are not with you,” said Yasuhara. “Plan special events, spend time with friends, go to your favorite restaurant or a restaurant you always wanted to go — a place that serves your favorite food.”

Also, take physical and psychological care of yourself. Eat right, sleep right, and stay hygienic. For those of you that are 21 and over, don’t get drunk or get a hangover because you’ll feel worse than before; and if you are going to drink, find a designated driver.

Lastly, remember the true meaning of Christmas. There are many churches around the island and it’s a good place to get in the spirit and meet new friends.

One final tip: The Chaminade counseling office, next door to the campus security office, will be open during the holiday breaks for students.