A New Pair of Glasses for the Holidays

By: Peggy Cunningham, MA, NCC,

Peggy Cunningham

As we approach the holiday season one is reminded that it is not happiness, joy, family, friends, fun, music and celebration for everyone.  Depression is prevalent in many people’s life.  The story heard from many people is I’m lonely, broke and sad.  I hate everything about the holidays, commercials, music, and families.

 What is depression?  It is a feeling of being sad, empty, anxious, hopeless, and worthless.  One may experience decreased energy, sleep disturbances; difficulty concentrating lost of interest in activities, and finds it difficult to carry out ones normal daily activities. 
Depression may be accompanied by feelings of restlessness, irritability, thoughts of suicide or self harm, and various body aches and pains. Treatment may require hospitalization, medication, talk therapy, and support groups.

During this holiday season to minimize the impact of depression here are some suggestions.

·         Establish a routine

·         Set realistic goals

·         Do what is important to you

·         Practice Self-care

·         Exercise

·         Rest – don’t burn the candle at both ends

·         Eat Moderately

·         Spend within your budget

·         Practice old traditions and establish some new ones

·         Open your heart and help others

·         Be Creative

·         Make peace with the past and forgive

·         Say NO sometimes!

We need to remember that each one of us has a great deal of inner strength.  We can always find something to laugh about.  We have the ability to practice balance and keep life simple.  Finally, sometimes we just need to breathe.