How to Fight Off Depression During The Holidays

Who says that holidays always bring happiness? We all know that life doesn't always bring us the joy we have hoped to receive. Each year brings something new, sometimes great sadness and sorrow. But, you don't have to wallow in darkness all year long. Besides, its not always healthy for you.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• motivation to be active.
• exercise routine
• fresh air
• support of friends and family
• medicaton, if necessary

1. Depression is a heavy and dark emotion or feeling. You may not want to get out of bed or you may choose to cry your eyes out. There is something to be said about wallowing in the muck and mire. It is very easy to sit and do nothing. But this isn't healthy for our physical bodies nor is it good for our mental health. You may not want to get out and see all the holiday festivities, parties, shopping, etc. But, get out there and interact with your friends and family.

2. With the country in financial straits, where do I get the money to do everything that I want to do? It doesn't matter. You don't need money to go for a walk and check out the Christmas lights. Take a friend and bring along hot chocolate and walk hand in hand or arm in arm.

3. Share with your family and friends your sadness. Sharing your story, though they may have heard it over and over, still helps. Sometimes, you may hear something different in the telling of your story that you hadn't heard before. Lean on your friends and family. They are your support in difficult times and the holidays can be a very hard time for you to handle right now.

4. If you are suppose to be taking medication for depression, continue to do so! Do not self medication, don't start drinking more or stop drinking more. Don't start taking drugs, hoping to numb the pain, stop taking those drugs, you aren't numbing anything. Remember to respect yourself. You have every right to be sad, and you have every right to want to enjoy the holidays.

Tips & Warnings

• It is easy to become depressed these days, and especially during the holidays. But, communicate with your friends and family when you are feeling down.
• If you think you need professional help, then talk to a Therapist.
• Don't isolate in your house.
• Don't stay in bed all day.
• Remember to eat!
• Stretch your muscles-get exercising!

[hula]

on 12/9/2009 Hope it helps, praiseworks. :) Happy Holidays.

[praiseworks]

on 12/7/2009 thank you for this article - I will be sharing it with a friend or two - 5

[bdcblogs]

on 12/27/2008 Good advice on a tough subject. 5*

[cadence]

on 12/4/2008 Great tips. It's important to work through holiday depression.

[ALLinRueThyme]

on 11/29/2008 Very good article and timely as well, we all need a little help from our friends now and then, and we all need to look out for our friends as well. Especially during the holidays.