But it's important to keep in mind that a hometown trip for the holidays may not be a reality for everyone. First of all, we each have our own definition of "home," and it may not always be the place where someone grew up. And if it is, there are plenty of reasons why someone might choose not to return there for the holidays — whether it's not economically feasible, their family has moved to a new place or celebrates holidays differently, or they're dealing with something more difficult associated with this time of year. (Even those of us who always make an annual return might not actually look forward to it. ) If you know someone who isn't headed "back home," it may be tempting to offer condolences, but if you want to be supportive, Marcia Norman , PsyD, a clinical psychologist who maintains a private practice in Winter Park, FL, says that it's best not to assume anything right off the bat.