Please try to reach out for support during the holidays....

[steve2470]

Please don't just sit at home and be totally miserable. Yes, I know, much easier to say this than actually do it. Been there done that. People, in general, understand that the holidays are difficult for many people, and we definitely understand here on DU and in this group in particular. Maybe we can discuss things to do to cope ?

Try to catch your depression/distress early before it gets overwhelming. Talk to a counselor in your area. We in this group are good in a pinch, but of course we can't replace in-person support and counseling. If you become suicidal in any degree, please please please call someone or call the national hotline [phone]. Suicide is a permanent "solution" to problems that can be coped with, given time and support/counseling.

I sincerely wish Happy Holidays (or lack thereof depending on your beliefs) to all here and on DU. :Festivus: :Chanukah:

[olddots]

1. this is real important

We should all check in because tizz the season to be jolly can be a cluter of triggers to gloom and doom .These holidays seem so forced and fake happy happy happy .Depression is weird .

[Tobin S.]

2. I think one of the best ways to cope with holiday stress is

to do something nice for yourself as well as your family and friends. I know that not all of us have good relationships with our families, but most of us feel compelled to do something with them on the holidays. If your folks stress you out, be extra kind to yourself this holiday season. What's the lyric from from the Journey song? "Be good to yourself when nobody else will." Something like that.

I think what can be even worse for some people than spending time with toxic relatives is spending the holidays completely alone. I don't know about where everyone else may live, but here in my little burg there are community get-togethers this time of year often sponsored by churches. I'm not the church going type, but I think if I were all alone this time of year I might participate in such gatherings. I'm somewhat introverted, but even people like me need human contact from time to time.

[steve2470]

3. +1 nt

[ThingsGottaChange]

4. Good message but,

please remember that some people don't have friends or families to reach out to. Even hearing that is painful. Another reminder of what most people have and don't give a second thought to. While some of us have no one. Doubly painful when you are isolated. Not trying to scold you or anything. I honestly hope that the people that are able to have nice times, truly do. It's just different for some of us. Hope you are doing well, Steve