Creating a Support System to Overcome Holiday Depression
The holidays for many of us can be a stressful time. The hustle and bustle of shopping, working, family and planning can become overwhelming. Underneath the norms can lay all the ingredients for a perfect emotional storm; setting the scene for depression and anxiety, washing away all resemblance of peace and joy.
Many things can bring about this shift; such as a sudden loss of a loved one, the absence of one, loss of a relationship, triggers from trauma or abuse and family members who judge and criticize, yet never seem to understand. Feelings of loneliness, isolation and sleep deprivation can have one teetering on the edge of insanity, while entertaining thoughts of suicide.
This year while battling it all, I discovered the benefits of guided meditation, positive subliminal messages and meditative musical therapy. There is a remarkably amount of information and technology we hold literally in our hands to discover other methods of healing and coping beyond basic medication treatments.
Jason Stevenson’s sleep guided meditation has been a powerful and effective go to for me. I have been able to knock out insomnia and negative toxic thinking, all while filling my mind with positivity. Listening to this track has given me a deep, peaceful and spiritual sleep. In the morning I’m awakened with energy and a feeling of peace and positivity.
I have decided to jump into the holiday season this year instead of drowning in it. Making this decision has been empowering and uplifting, giving depression the boot and boost it needed in the direction of positive energy.
Grabbing ahold of the hands of people who are genuinely reaching out to love and help me is also a part of this process and has held no regrets. We need people, the right people, to listen to, share laughter, enjoy a meal together, inspire hope or just be there.
Lastly, but first in order of my life is my faith. A relationship with God is the foundation of my relief and happiness. It renews my mind and spirit daily. Healing and coping requires a multitude of things, including trials and strategies. No one person is identically the same, so neither are the solutions to our problems.
The key is to never give up on living and loving you. Research and discover other methods of healing and relief, seek the help you need and know there is hope for the hurt and despair you or your loved one may be feeling. The holidays can be happy, but that has to start by first taking care of you or reaching out to another in need.
