Straddling the fence this Thanksgiving: which way will you fall?

Thanksgiving 2020, the holiday when no matter what you do, it's wrong. 

The CDC is strongly advising that you celebrate the holiday at home, with no one else attending, outside of those who already live there. They warn that with more than 1 million new COVID-19 cases reported over the last 7 days in the US, the safest Thanksgiving is at-home.  The CDC adds that (quote) "Travel may increase your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Postponing travel and staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others this year."

If you DO choose to attend a Thanksgiving event elsewhere, they suggest you "bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, and utensils" and "use single-use options, like salad dressings and condiment packets" rather than those likely being handled by everyone at the table. Even then, they advise mask wearing and social distancing.

If you DO choose to host an event with others traveling to attend, they suggest you "limit the number of guests, and have an outdoor meal, while asking guests to bring their own food and drink."

How many will follow the CDC guidelines is anyone's guess, as so many have reached the point of 'COVID fatigue', and are seemingly ready to partake in the usual holiday activities regardless of the circumstances. 
Sadly, the results may be worse than anyone could have comprehended.

(CDC suggestions here.)

Meanwhile, another article, from UC Davis School of  Medicine, suggests staying home is exacerbating the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder, also know as SAD.

This disorder typically affects only 5% of people in a severely measurable way, but after nearly a year of stay-at-home requirements, a much larger percentage of the population is likely to suffer its affects.

Symptoms of SAD include: 

• feeling depressed nearly every day,
• losing interest in activities you once enjoyed,
• having low energy,
• insomnia,
• changes in appetite or weight,
• having difficulty concentrating,
• and thoughts of suicide.
  
  

Mental experts suggest says to battle the onset of this disorder include:

• embracing the holidays at home by decorating or cooking,
• exercise,
• light therapy or exposure to sunshine,
• watching comedies,
• maintaining social connections through phone calls or on-line zoom calls,
• and paying-it-forward by doing something nice for someone.
  
  

(read the article here)

Combining all of these factors, with the upcoming Christmas holidays, a fragile business climate, and the uncertainty of what 2021 holds, has created a virtual whirlwind of emotional and economic turmoil.  During all of this, most families are struggling with their finances as well. 

Smart families are planning their next steps, including debt resolution or bankruptcy choices.
If you already feel your financial situation is out of control...contact us for a FREE CONSULTATION for debt resolution and/or bankruptcy at (731) 423-1888. The law office of T. Verner Smith has helped thousands overcome financial problems, and can help you too. Call today!