Holiday Depression
Thursday, December 18th, 2008This time of year always passes quickly, with all that is expected from buying gifts, spending quality time with friends & family, company parties, cooking, and of course work responsibilities. Most of you probably have similar agendas.
The other day I was talking to a friend who shared that he becomes depressed around the holidays. Over the years, he has lost many family members and friends. Growing up he celebrated Christmas with extended family–approximately 40-50 relatives. It has now dwindled down to a few people. Some family married or moved away, but the foundational members that originally brought everyone together, have long since died.
Holidays often remind people of the past. Some may be excited about the changes that have occurred in their lives, while others may wish to return to a happier time. One of my previous clients, often talks about her parents around the holidays. At 88, she still longs to return to the “good ole days” when she lived in Ohio and rode her sled on snowy days. These were happier times…before she and her parents had a falling out, and then she moved far away.
This client is one of many that have spoken out about their depression, especially around the holidays. Most older adults have lost some type of significant relationship over the years. Unfortunately,this is a normal part of growing older….for any age.
After talking at length to my friend about his “holiday depression,” we agreed on one point. The only way to manage the losses incurred, is to be open to new experiences. As he ages, he may one day be a foundational figure in his family. Where new family members come together, and spend quality time over the holiday season. One day his future grandchildren may look back at these times (like my previous client) as the “good ole days.” Happy Holidays to you all!
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