Hola !
It's been a minute and I'd like to wish everyone a a wonderful holiday season. Holidays are filled with love, fun, family, partying, drinking....all of the festive things that mark this season of indulgence. The season is almost over , yet the biggest party is about to happen...New Year's Eve!
No review of a spa service here ...rather some practical advice as this is also the season where depression and suicide rates increase.
With the flurry of activity during the season, it's hard to recognize depression. Often those who are depressed may not know it and tend to pull away from others either deliberately or not. The holidays are a time of togetherness, yet one can be in a room full of people and feel alone.
This is the season of S.A.D. Seasonal Affective Disorder which is a form of depression that affects people around the same time each year - generally the winter. A lack of sunlight seems to be one of the causes.
This is not to suggest that anyone who is depressed during the winter has S.A.D. yet it is very real. Depression is very real. Recognizing it in oneself or others is also very real. There are a variety of other types of depression some are long term in duration and others quite sudden. Unchecked depression can lead to suicide.
Women seem to suffer more than men with S.A.D. Women are nurturers and often are taking care of others to the point of not taking care of themselves. Since this blog is about that very thing - take the time during the holiday to TAKE CARE OF YOU.
Appreciate and take the time for the little things. Find out what's really important to you. While I know spending time alone is a luxury for some -take the time for yourself this season. Give the gift of free time to someone else. Sometimes helping others can lift our spirits tremendously.
As the year closes, be thankful for all the things accomplished - and even the things not accomplished and pray for the ability to have another shot at getting it right.
Whether you are struggling with financial issues, health issues, relationship issues a holistic approach is one option in addressing those issues. Yes you can spend money and head to the nearest spa, but the reality is spa-ing is a wonderful relaxing way to de-stress but also is quite temporary.
Realizing you may need help and reaching out to others is always the first step. For those who are more adept at dealing and recognizing the signs of depression in others - assist if you can. Sometimes all people need is to know you care.
National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Depression resources : National Institute of Mental health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml
http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-symptoms-and-types
Hopefully this information is useful to you our someone else you may know. Have a healthy and prosperous new year!
Ciao!
