Nothing to Feel Thankful For

Donna Nichols • November 21, 2022
An elderly woman is leaning on a window sill looking out the window.

So, it’s Thanksgiving and you don’t feel very thankful, what’s wrong with you? Could be nothing; did you suffer a loss of some kind? Was there a traumatic event, such as a hurricane? Did you lose your job or have some bad health news? Any one of these things can make you feel less than thankful and like not celebrating the holiday. But you have family coming over and need to get over these feelings. How do I overcome feeling sadness, loneliness, or depression?


First, you should consult a doctor, your condition may be related to PTSD and there are medications and treatments for PTSD. Accept that these are your feelings and you just can’t help it. Hopefully these feelings will be gone by Christmas, if not, remember the steps you take to get through Thanksgiving and apply them to the Christmas and New Year holidays as well.


→       Don’t fake it. Do not “pretend” to be happy, this will only make you feel worse. Go into the day with your feelings the way they are and try the best you can to deal with them.


→       Try to avoid all confrontational situations. Whether it’s proving you are right about something or a relative who just gets under your skin, think about how you will handle the situation ahead of time.


→       Should you find yourself alone on Thanksgiving, make a plan about how you will spend the day ahead of time. Research what places will be open and maybe a little window shopping is just what the doctor ordered. If you prefer to be with others, ask a friend if you can join them, or maybe volunteer dishing out meals to others.


→       Treat yourself with compassion and understanding; everyone goes through rough patches at times and there is nothing wrong with you for feeling this way. Not feeling thankful on Thanksgiving does not make you a bad person, so accept your feelings for what they are this year and go easy on yourself.


→       End your long day with something to look forward to. You made it through a most difficult day and you should reward yourself. Cozy up with a good book and a cup of cocoa, take a long walk outside (weather permitting), go for a drive, or take a nice, warm bath. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it’s something rewarding.



We tend to think that we need to feel thankful and enjoy the holiday to have a wonderful day and if we don’t feel this way, we will have a terrible day. Most of us usually always have just an okay day with all kinds of ups and downs throughout the day. Don’t assume your day will be terrible because you aren’t thankful; find a way to realize it will be an okay day and get comfortable with that idea. There will be some pleasant moments and a few highlights no matter how you choose to spend your Thanksgiving.


We at Assisted Living Made Simple want to wish you all a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving holiday.

Coping with Holiday Loneliness

By Donna Nichols • December 8, 2025
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Holiday Visits: How to Spot Changes in a Loved One’s Needs

By Donna Nichols • December 2, 2025
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Gratitude in Every Season

By Donna Nichols • November 13, 2025
As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re reminded that gratitude isn’t just a holiday tradition — it’s a way of life. At Assisted Senior Services, we see it daily: in the quiet strength of caregivers, the wisdom of our seniors, and the small moments that make a big difference. We believe gratitude is more than a feeling. It’s a practice. A way of seeing the world, even in challenging times. For seniors, caregivers, and families, this season can stir a mix of emotions. There may be joy in gathering, but also grief, fatigue, or change. That’s why we hold space for all of it — and honor the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up with love. Gratitude doesn’t erase hardship, but it helps us carry it. It reminds us that even in uncertainty, there are still ordinary gifts: a warm hand to hold, a shared laugh, a moment of peace. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, navigating new challenges, or simply pausing to reflect, this season invites us to slow down and appreciate the ordinary gifts around us — a warm smile, a shared story, a helping hand. We are grateful for: • The families who trust us to walk alongside them, through transitions and triumphs. • The caregivers who show up with compassion and grace. • The caregivers who offer comfort, dignity, and patience every single day. • The seniors who teach us resilience, humor, and the value of every day – reminding us of what really matters. This Thanksgiving, we honor your journey. We celebrate your courage. And we’re here to support you — not just during the holidays, but all year long. So, whether your Thanksgiving is bustling or quiet, traditional or tender, we hope you find something to hold onto — and someone to hold it with. From all of us at Assisted Senior Services, thank you for being part of our community. We’re honored to support you, and we wish you a season filled with warmth, connection, and care. Happy Thanksgiving!