We’re in the thick of Holiday Season, and for many of us that means less joy and jollity and more stress and sadness. If you find yourself or someone you love struggling with holiday-related depression, it’s important to remember that you aren’t alone and that there are tools available to help. The excerpt below is from an article in Forbes. If it’s resonating with you, and if you live in the greater Cleveland area, we hope you’ll reach out.
This time of year can be stressful for anyone. Among the crowded stores, long shopping lists, cooking, cleaning, traveling and entertaining, it’s easy to see how we can all feel exhausted. In fact, it’s important that we proactively set realistic expectations for our ability to cope during this busy time because, in all likelihood, we’ll find ourselves overwhelmed at some point.
It’s important to distinguish, however, the difference between a normal amount of holiday stress and actual depression. Sadly, too many people report an increase in sadness during these festive months. As the world celebrates around them, it must be particularly alienating and lonely to be descending into darkness. If you find yourself feeling depressed, please don’t ignore it.
Open Up About Your Struggles
While it’s important for the people around you to be vigilant, they may miss the signs amid the chaos the holidays can bring. Do not take this as an indication that they don’t care and never let yourself believe that you are a burden. Anyone who has dealt with depression knows that feeling this way is common and sometimes prevents us from reaching out for help.
Instead, whether you send a text, email or have a face-to-face conversation, let your loved ones know what you’re going through. Give them the opportunity to give you the support that you need and deserve. Taking this first step can be scary but it’s really important.