CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY DEPRESSION

Despite the fun, the food, the joy and the magical moments of Christmas and the holiday season, there are many people that face emotional turmoil this time of year. If it is the first Christmas without a loved one following a death, it can be a reminder the person is gone. If the family structure has changed such as married children have moved away or are spending the significant days with the other side of the family, there can be loneliness and exculsion. Fighting about whose house has what dinner- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or Boxing Day- makes for a stressful time. Making new traditions help. As the family changes, change is expected in the formal events of the season. Financial restrictions can damper the demands of " what do you want for Christmas?" from loved ones. Adults understand it and will not expect much or anything from those undergoing monetary hardship. Little children and even teenagers have different expectations. Often those folks are invited to the meals to give a welcoming place to be. Gifts can be given to others without a need  to receive anything back as a positive Christian value. Miscellaneous toy and food drives are good ways. However, helping people we know can  be challenging as some people will just say " I don't need charity!"

Anyone with chronic depression or anxiety can be suffering severely. As others around them are able to cope with the increased tasks and social events, they can become more incapacitated. If you know someone, reach out and offer to help with the concrete things for them. Sickness and hospitalization this time of year stands out. Can you assist those families? Asking someone at the last minute to your dinner or taking a meal to them could be helpful! Checking in on the friend with depression often to fend off any critical situation is a good idea. What about your energy? Take a deep breath! When entertaining, slow down and enjoy the company. If someone asks to give a hand, let them. Share the load. No one helps me with my dishes, as I just keep putting another load in the dishwasher so we all can sit and enjoy!

Are you the one with depression? Make sure your loved ones can be of assistance to you! Take your medication! Talk to your doctor if needed! Take care of yourself! Rather than trying to do it all, step back and really chose what is most important to you and the significant people in your life! Watching a sappy Christmas movie while eating chocolate creates a memory! Walking around your neighbourhood looking at the lights gives some much needed exercise as well as a fun moment for all! Teaching little children about the Christmas story through play because play let's you stop to relax! Rushing here and there is not fun! For some families, the season brings driving everywhere. Perhaps, talk about a sleepover- cut down on the driving! Remember it is hard to be in a good mood all the time- so it is okay to take little breaks from each other. Those of you that are the strong ones and can handle it all- you will recognize those in need! How is your mood right now? Are you feeling joyous? Depressed? Stressed about the last minute tasks? Are you finished and can you help someone else? If you are having trouble coping, talk to a doctor or your health care professional. Above all, recognize the times you need a break to try to relax and enjoy all around you!