Not everyone has a loving and supportive family to celebrate the holidays with

Every family is complex and some more than others. With this in mind, make sure you keep an eye out for your friends throughout the holiday season. Some people may be feeling very left out and alone, especially with Thanksgiving coming up- so be there for those around you when you can!

I'm throwing a friendsgiving this year for my friends, so that even if they aren't going home (or maybe they are but don't have a great family life) for Thanksgiving, they'll have a night where they feel loved, accepted and super well fed!

Weather changes affect seasonal depression

Many people deal with seasonal depression, myself included. With the changing weather and darker days, it's hard to stay positive and see the brighter side.

Even people that do not deal with seasonal depression have their darker days; the winter can be brutal! Some winters it feels like the cold bleak weather will never end and it gets harder and harder to get out of bed in the mornings.

Watch out for your friends and family because while some people may not ask for help, they may show severe changes in their behavior which may be a sign that something is off!

Family can be overwhelming

While the holidays might be entirely magical and fun for some people, for others it can be very mentally and emotionally draining. It can be hard when you're in this situation to watch everyone else be happy with their family and winter break plans, so make sure to check in on your friends and see that they're doing okay.

You don't need to give gifts or spend a lot of money to show your loved ones you care

The concept of gifts is always difficult, whether it be in relation to money or the degree of the relationship(s).

Keep in mind you don't need to spend a lot, or any, money to make someone feel special when giving a gift. Sometimes it's the hand made things or adventures that a person really wants anyways, so don't feel pressured to follow the stereotypical idea of a holiday gift.

Remember to remind those you care about that you're there 

Especially around the holidays, friends or family that are feeling down may be reluctant to ask for a helping hand. Everyone else may seem happy and festive, so it can be harder than usual to open up.

In whatever way that works for you, remind those around you that you care and that you're there. Not only around the holidays, but always.