Holiday Stress Can Trigger Depression
Plan ahead to minimize the impact.
By Dr. John Clifford, Associate Pastor
It’s holiday time! In the midst of our parties, reunions, decorations and the other aspects of "thanks-giving" and "joy to the world" we find this is also the peak season for depression. While for most folks this may be a mild discontent, for millions it is a major life trial.
Why the stress?
There are many factors, but consider: - Holiday activities are "in addition to" our normal routines, and many of us find our time already full before adding anything much to our schedules.
- Societal expectations that we give so many gifts are a strain on budgets already stretched (a majority of Americans spend 95-100% of their income each month.)
- The extended family support networks of the past are smaller, and thousands of miles often separate us.
- Our American holiday season sits in the heart of winter darkness – and studies suggest that ten percent of Americans suffer from "Seasonal Affective Disorder" (SAD), related to insufficient light stimulation.
How to cope with the stress?
- The number one step is limit yourself! Keep expectations reasonable, reduce the number of commitments, don’t feel you have to "match gifts’ with others.
- Spend time (and energy) helping others – there are lots of charities looking for extra helpers around the holidays.
- Remember to WORSHIP. It’s so easy to bury the presence of God under all the hurry and commotion of the season. Step back, join others in returning to the source of all our gifts.
And have a truly gifted holy season!
