Holiday Blues

  While some of us think this is the most wonderful time of the year, for many it is the loneliest. There are many people who struggle through the holidays alone, without friends or family. Depression seems to go hand in hand with the month of December. But we can all help. And it won't cost us a penny.

  Neighbors, especially the elderly, are the most obvious. Knock on their door. Invite them for a meal or a cup of coffee at your house. Call them when you are decorating your tree or making holiday cookies. Take an hour break from shopping and sit and chat. About nothing at all. You cannot imagine the difference it will make.

  Look at your circle of friends. Chances are one of them has lost a loved one or gotten divorced or separated in the past year. This will be an especially difficult time with it being a "first". Send them a card, write them a note. Pick up the phone. Invite them to things. Drive around looking at Christmas lights with them. Offer to babysit. You don't have to do anything huge just include them. Keep them from feeling isolated and alone. 

  When you know someone is depressed before the holidays try to help take the stress off of them. Show up and get them to take a walk with you. Volunteer to help decorate their home or do a cookie exchange. Something to get them into the spirit without the stress. You won't "fix" their depression but you can help them manage it. Even in a small way.

  Don't forget to take care of your own mental health this holiday season either. It doesn't matter how you decorate, or what gifts you buy or the paper you wrap them in. You won't remember how dry the turkey was or the fact that you ran out of red wine. The kids will live without the expensive gifts and home-made gingerbread houses. Be present. That is the true gift of the holidays. 

  And like I promised, it won't cost you a cent!

  Ang