Holiday Time: Why are we feeling so sad during the “most wonderful time of the year”

Christmas, Chanukah and New Year’s fall out during the darkest time of the year, when we get up in the dark and come home in the dark. This is one contributing factor to our “SADness” during this time (Seasonal Affective Disorder).

Additionally, during the holiday season, stress becomes a factor as we worry over presents, parties and meals we have to prepare for our family and friends and how we’re meant to physically and financially manage this all.

All this stress can lead to excessive drinking, over eating, trouble sleeping and headaches which all can contribute to more of the seasonal depression we feel.

What can we do to relieve ourselves of this depression?

-more light! Studies have found that being exposed to light (especially florescent) can decrease the effects of S.A.D

- more realistic expectations! Ask, what can I feasibly accomplish with the time and money at my disposal

-treat yourself!  Find an inexpensive way to enjoy yourself, help a friend or enjoy the company of a loved one in an un-stressful environment

-talk to someone! A friend might be able to help, but if your still feeling blue, don’t hesitate to find a support group or counseling

http://www.medicinenet.com/holiday_depression_and_stress/article.htm

Decrease in jobs related to depression?

If you or someone you know has lost their job, you may notice that they aren't the same person as they used to be when employed. In other words, perhaps they were once happy and active individuals, but after losing their job, they've become lethargic and might have developed a sense of helplessness.  According to the Department of Labor, in April 2010, the unemployment rate was 9.9 percent; leaving approximately 15.3 million people without jobs. This amount is extremely high, and increased throughout the year of 2011.

As the year 2012 is approaching us, we can only hope for the employment rate to increase. In the meantime, there are many ways to cope with depression in regards to job loss. First, if you lose your job, there is no point in sitting around at home feeling sorry for yourself. Instead, try searching for another job, or perhaps volunteer for different programs all over your area. There are plenty of opportunities to keep yourself busy, and getting involved is a great start. Secondly, it is imperative to a person's well being to not blame themselves for losing their job; but rather, the current state of our economy is at fault. For those of you who might have recently lost a job, try to feel better about yourself by incorporating 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine, or perhaps getting together with a group of friends will raise your spirit. Also, if you or someone you know is experiencing depression, it is highly recommended to see either a psychiatrist or a psychologist to help cope with those issues.

To conclude, don't allow the depression that comes along with losing a job get underneath your skin. Allowing yourself to become depressed will make it harder to find a job and will overall bring down your self-esteem. Staying positive is the best option; and being involved and active is an extremely positive way of dealing with a job loss.

Written by: Talia Auslin