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CSR 
6:49pm, June 4, 2009
As we approach the Thanksgiving Holiday I wanted to remind people that it is not uncommon to feel anxious and even sad during the Holidays. Of course it is ideal to have everything seem peaceful and harmonious and have all family relationships free of conflict but for many that is simply not the reality. This time of year I see many people in my office concerned about the upcoming Holiday events. Stressors such as divided families, alcohol use among family members, traveling, and finances, to name just a few, cause some people to dread this season. I see couples who are torn apart by the decision about whose family to spend the Holidays with and how to divide their time. Often those that suffer with Depression see an increase in symptoms. This is when it is important to get in touch with your therapist or psychiatrist and make sure that your meds are adjusted accordingly. Life doesn't always look like a Hallmark card and it is important for people to know that they are not alone in their feelings. Like all seasons this one will pass and the year will begin anew. So I wanted to suggest to those of you who do struggle at this time of year that you reach out to others here at DS and that you make a commitment to yourself and to your families to try to find the joy, not just in the season, but in your life. I realize that we therapists are known for trying to assist people in changing their perspective, even when it seems downright impossible, but now more than ever the list you want to be making, and checking twice, is the one that has your blessings on it. Find the small things that give your life meaning and focus on them - even if you are going through a particularly difficult transition. Be gentle with yourself and try hard not to over schedule or over commit - which can exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Spend as much time as possible in places that you feel safe and comfortable so that you are more prepared (and less drained) for those events that may take an emotional toll. Instead of feeling alienated by the singing joyful faces you see try to allow it to be contagious even if just for a moment. Remember to stay connected to people and search for your own joy. I want to wish everyone a Happy and Peaceful Thanksgiving and a hopeful outlook about the upcoming Holidays.
Comments
By now everyone on this site, no matter where they are in the world, is aware of the horrible fires that are raging through Southern California. There have been some posts about increased anxiety - certainly for those effected directly by the fires, but also for those who are out of harms way. Anytime we become aware of something going on in the world that leaves people vulnerable and victimized by tragic events it can increase symptoms of anxiety and depression. The 24/7 news coverage is great for providing information but not so wonderful for those who are dealing with managing mental health issues. Sometimes symptoms will increase and individuals are unaware that current events are actually causing theses symptoms. Therefore, I would like to suggest to those of you who may be experiencing any of these feelings that you avoid the constant media barrage, talk about your feelings with your therapist or friends, and recognize that the increase in symptoms may be do to the increase in stressful information coming at you and not necessarily a relapse. Events that elicit fear in a mass number of people have a unique way of stirring up emotions within us that may lay dormant in calmer times. Be gentle with yourselves and stay connected to your support systems. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by these tragic events both directly and indirectly.
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thank i will pray for all
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Thank you for the suggestions that have been made. I am sure they will be helpful to many of us who have been dealing with shyness throughout most of our lives. I was once told that if you do not have anything to talk about, that the following items (H. E. L. P.) might be helpful:
Hobbies
Entertainment
Literature
Politics
They have worked for me, and maybe they will help some others. Jim
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Another great one. Thanks
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Thanks for these suggestions, this was very helpful for me. I used to be an outgoing person and was extremely comfortable in front of people. In fact I looked forward to being in front of a crowd. Since my MS, I find myself more and more withdrawn, to the point where I am almost reclusive, hiding inside my home, afraid to speak to anyone. I will keep your suggestions in mind and hopefully they will help me in the future.
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Great video!!! How are the Dodgers doing?
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May I add to your post, which is excellent and well received to watch your children while they play, especiall the non-vocal ones. We have a lost 5 year boy out there that can not talk. He is lost and the police and volunteers are frantically searching. His grandmother left him playing outside and he wandered off. Please be advised to keep your eye peeled on the little ones who are not able to speak and say"I'm here" if someone is calling out to them.
The fear is that this child may hide, being scared, and lost as he is and not try to make any sound at all. I am praying for this child. God bless him.
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Thank you for posting this. I came to DS To help a loved one who suffers from PTSD. He lives in Seattle and I live in Arizona. I talked to him this evening and he really seemed down tonight. After reading this I now can understand why he feels down. Happy Thanksgiving to you And keep the faith..TDMOHR
TDMOHR
I think this posting will help many people. In years past, my father died shortly before Thanksgiving, and my mother passed away 10 days before Christmas. Even after 10 years, and more, I still dread the holiday season. In addition to the joy and happiness that is supposed to come at this time of year, there is also an expectation from others for expensive and unaffordable gifts. If one is living on a fixed income, this can be a very stressful and depressing time of year.
JimK
This is such a timely and important post...I think many here at Daily Strength can benefit from knowing they are not alone if they feel other than what you see on a Hallmark card...
JulieC
Thank you for the advice, I am struggling to get prego, and haven't yet. I feel overwhelmed sometimes when I go to the mall and see woman who are prego or have a newborn. 3 night ago I just balled my eyes out cause I wa just devasted that i am not prego yet and we have been ttc for almost 2 years. what advice do you give to me?
jillyB
no more updates?
GeocacherNY
Found this journal tonight and it is just as timely as it was this time last year! Thanks!
computerbob1
I am in here for like the very first time. It is now into January and I am feeling down. It is a number of things going on, but a biggy is that over the last 4 yrs or so I have lost my parents and father in law. Can we talk?
HILLY