UNPOPULAR OPINION: I do not like the holidays.
As someone who struggles with mental illness, this season tends to be stressful, chaotic, and overwhelming. Holidays felt lonely, until I rediscovered Jim Carrey's version of "The Grinch" as an adult. Not only is "The Grinch" my favorite holiday movie because it makes me laugh hysterically, but I feel an affinity to Carrey's sarcastic, manic character. Here are reasons why The Grinch is the holiday hero for every depressed and stressed millennial:
1. The Grinch avoids social interaction at all costs
Part of the holidays includes excessive friendliness and cheer with every person in your life. This includes that annoying co-worker who you got for Secret Santa, your old fling you run into at the mall, and the high school friend who takes your Facebook posts too seriously. I'd rather be at home with a book any time of the year, and the holidays serve as a reminder as to why that's the case.
2. ...especially with extended family and friends
Tis' the holiday spirit to ignore all the racist remarks your aunt makes, your drunk friend's invasion of your privacy, and pretending to like/remember the name of your cousin, seventh-removed. No, thank you!
3. The Grinch would rather hang out with his dog, Max
One of my favorite parts of the holiday is buying my cats presents and treats off of Amazon. Also, who doesn't like to dress up their pets in cute antlers and Santa hats? It eliminates the anxiety of posing for awkward, holiday cards and makes the cutest replacement.
4. Holiday parties and themed clothing? Hell. No.
The Grinch personified the stress of trying to get nicely dressed for holiday parties and dinners. The only holiday-themed item you might catch me wearing is an oversized, ugly sweater to hide my Christmas Eve food baby.
5. On the topic of food, The Grinch just *gets it*
That feeling when it's 2:00 AM, you have insomnia, and you just finished your Netflix show, so you eat ALL the leftover mashed potatoes.
6. He hates the repetitive Christmas music almost as much as you do
When you're struggling with depression and anxiety, the last thing you want to do is hear the same 20-song holiday playlist on loop for the entire month of December.
7. Lastly, The Grinch teaches us to try and find some joy during the holidays
I know it can be difficult. Whether it's a loved one, an awesome gift to yourself, or your favorite holiday movie, find something that makes you happy and be grateful for it.
