Friday, December 7, 2012

Sadness During The Holidays

Now that the holiday season is fast approaching, many of us are preparing for the festivities. Some are busy shopping - no let's make that most are busy shopping. Great care is taken to find that special gift, hoping it will bring joy to our loved one.

Unfortunately the sad truth is there are many who are depressed during the holidays. The buying and giving of gifts is out of reach for many. Also not everyone has family to share the revelries. Others have such high expectations that they are left feeling empty when the realities of life set.
 
Some people are sad during the holidays, and many suffer from depression.


This year many people have suffered from the poor economic situation. Some have lost their job. Others are underemployed, which can be depressing and attack a person's ego and self-worth.


Take time this holiday season to reflect on the true meaning behind the celebration. Reach out and try to touch someone. Make a difference in a person's life. The idea of a good deed moving forward should especially be strong now. Remember the unselfish acts of the original Saint Nicholas, who is considered the greatest gift giver of all time.  He delivered basic food, necessities and money needed for the survival of others.  He was concerned about other's well-being and happiness. 

 
Emotionally, we all need a pat on the back now and again. When a person's self-esteem is wavering, it is even more urgent.  Don't just participate in this year’s festivity, but instead become involved with the people closest to you.
 


Royalty free stock photos. All pictures are free for commercial and personal use.
If you really like these pictures you can buy George a cup of coffee.


Look around you and see the people behind the mask.  If you see sadness in their face, reach out and ask them if they are okay.  Listen to their story.  Take time to hear them and give them moral support.
 
Sometimes just being recognized and validated can help. No one should be sad during the holidays.  During this Advent season let’s help each other so it will be a Merry Christmas!

Until next post…have a great day.



Mayo Clinic

     Link to Mayoclinic article - Depression & the Holidays  



WebMD: Better information. Better health.     Link to WebMD article - Depression During the Holidays



  helpguide.org Article on Depression-signs/ types / diagnosis / treatment

Helpguide’s Mission


Helpguide’s mission is to provide you and your family with mental health information you can trust. Our expert, ad-free resources empower you with the knowledge and encouragement you need to take charge of your life and make healthy choices. We believe that with support and self-help options, you can understand, prevent, and resolve many of life’s challenges.

Free Emotional Intelligence CourseHelpguide / Harvard Collaboration  




Link Gallup poll emotional-cost of underemployment




 















 

 

 

 


"Underemployed Americans are almost twice as likely to have been told by a doctor or nurse that they suffer from depression."

 

The Bottom Line

With approximately 20% of Americans currently underemployed, the daily negativity this group experiences could have an impact on their lives now and in the future. Gallup has previously reported that underemployed Americans report spending substantially less than the employed and that the majority of the underemployed are not hopeful about finding a job, trends that are sure to contribute to daily worry, sadness, stress, and anger.



2 comments:

  1. Hey Elisabeth! You are so very right about the holidays. There are way too many people out there struggling just for everyday basic needs. Seniors are in homes with no family visiting them, nor presents to open; there are cats and dogs stuck in shelters with no toys when all they want are "forever homes". Like you said, each of us needs to reach out to someone who needs a little glimpse of hope. Best way to do that is donate items to charities. It doesn't have to be expensive stuff, just anything to help someone's life be more than what it is. I appreciate your words this day!! Thank you! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jennifer - keep reaching out! You do make a difference. Elisabeth

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