When Christmas is Depressing

Christmas is usually a time filled with excitement and happiness, but for some people it can be a very difficult and sad time of the year.

The Depression Alliance has found that calls to its helpline rise by 40% during the festive season. If you, or someone you know, are suffering from depression this Christmas here are some tips to make things more manageable:

• Try to drink alcohol responsibly during, and in the run up to, Christmas. Alcohol is a depressant so you may be exacerbating the symptoms if you over do it.
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  Talk things through with your partner and/or family, they will want to help you through the depression.
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  If you will be alone at Christmas find out what is going on in your area, there may be drop-in centres, support groups and other community resources operating over the Christmas period.
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  If you are worrying about being overwhelmed by too many social events, think about which to attend and which to politely decline. People will understand that you cannot do everything.
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  Take care of yourself, avoid getting overtired, eat nutritious food and try to take some exercise over the holiday.
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  If you feel that you really are not coping, the Samaritans are operating their helpline over Christmas 24-hours a day. Samaritans volunteers are trained in many in many of the same techniques as professional counsellors, but they won’t judge you or tell you what to do.

More Help with Depression

Depression - The Essential Guide by Glenys O'Connell is a practical guide to help you deal with depression

Samaritans helpline - 08457 90 90 90.

Extract taken from Depression - The Essential Guide. For more information on coping with depression at Christmas or at any other time, take a look at the book - available now in eBook and printed book formats. Buy the printed version and get the eBook free!