Holiday Depression: 10 Drug Free Ways to Help

Depression is a serious problem year round for millions of Americans, but it can affect even more people during the Holiday Season.

1. Writing

   Putting pen to paper about your inner most thoughts, knowing that not one else will see it, is great therapy. After writing in a journal or diary, some people have stated experiencing a feeling of weight being lifted off their shoulders. Feel free to get it all out of your system. It could be a lack of money for the kind of holiday you think people expect from you. Maybe you cannot be with your family or friends. Whatever it is, write it down.

2. Sunshine

   The dark days of winter can cause a disorder known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Not only for your physical health, but your mental health as well, you need at least 15 minutes a day of sunshine. You may have to use light therapy, if you live in the northern part of the country and see very few sunny days. Special lamps are available for purchase, with a rate of 10,000 lux. Full spectrum lighting

3. Face yourself

   Read more in Mental Health

   « Seven Ways to Combat the Winter Blues

   What’s Your Psychosis? »

   Look at yourself in the mirror and acknowledge that you feel depressed. Then tell yourself that “It is what it is and it’s not the end of the world”. Even though you may feel that nothing is good or right in your life, look again. If you think you have the worse life ever, take a ride to where the homeless hang out. Every city has a section of town where the down trodden gather. Go to your local mission, start helping others. Look for those who need help. Volunteer at a hospital, teach kids to read. You can always find someone who’s life is harder than yours. Salvation Army [http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn.nsf]

4. Music

   Studies have shown that when fast, upbeat music is played in the workplace, employees work faster and are happier. Turn up the stereo and put in some rock & roll. How long has it been since you danced, or exercised to music? The exercising will also help. Try it. What do you have to lose? Weight? Sounds like a good deal. Here is a place to find anything regarding Music Search.

5. Diet

   Holidays mean more candy and a lot more food. Try to avoid sugar, caffeine and alcohol. Easier said than done, but there comes a time when you have to use your brain and not follow your feelings and tell yourself that these things aren’t going to make you feel better. In fact they can make you feel worse.

6. Talk

   Don’t retreat. Talk to a good friend or family member about your feelings. Ask for support. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone you know, try a therapist. Most employers now offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to help not only their employees, but the families of their workers may use the service. Talk to your spiritual leader. Don’t have one? Now would be a good time to get one.

7. Rest

   Sleep is vital to your mental health. 7 – 8 hours a night is the usual recommendation. If you are having trouble sleeping you have to start taking measures to sleep better and longer. Go to bed at a regular time, every night. Try not to vary the time by more than an hour. Take a warm bath followed by a cup of chamomile tea. Don’t watch TV before bed, but start reading a book. Keep your bedroom dark. Don’t count sheep, but lay still, relax your body and start counting backwards from 100.

8. Pets

   If you don’t have a pet, get one. Cats and dogs are particularly good for depressed people. They love you no matter what. Talk, pet and love on them and yes, even let them sleep in your bed. They work magic. Adopt a pet from your local Humane Society [http://www.hsus.org/].

9. The Internet

   If you spend time online, that is a form of escaping and prolonged time spent lost on the web can be detrimental. If you are going to be online, make it worthwhile and get involved in a therapy group. There are many sites available that offer help. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. This is a good place to start .

10. Help

    There is help available. This article is not meant to be a substitute for professional healthcare. These suggestions are not intended to replace any medications or therapy an individual may be receiving. The author is not a healthcare professional nor claims to be. Anyone suffering from depression should consult their health care professional before pursuing any treatments.

I’ve known people who have suffered horribly for years from this mental disorder, but I’ve also seen miraculous changes in some of them. It can be done, with help and a personal commitment.