That dreaded time of year

[Stella180]

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I don’t like Christmas but I always struggle at this time of year and I know I’m not alone. For the past few weeks I’ve been trying to outrun the black dog but he’s caught up with me and it’s time to face facts and admit I’m really not coping as well as I thought. Just taking my meds on time, eating regularly and drinking enough during the day is challenging. My sleep pattern is all over the place, my energy levels are low, I have very little motivation or interest in anything and I’m emotional at times for no real reason.

I think I’ve been doing better over the past few months since a med change and can only put this dip down to the pressures of Christmas, the loneliness, thinking of lost loved ones, buying gifts and food etc. and the social expectations all take a toll on me and many others battling with depression. It sucks massively.

[Emily16]

Thank you for sharing. How can I help? I’d love to spread some holiday cheer!

[Stella180 in reply to Emily16]

Emily16 I’m not sure there is anything to help, I just need to ride it out. The stressful buildup, followed by the expectations of the holidays, and finally the vacuum of January. I have many coping mechanisms I can put in place but I find it frustrating that things are so hard you know what I mean?

[Emily16 in reply to Stella180]

Definitely! I’m hoping for some good luck to come my way. It would be nice not to feel stressed out about everything. I’m making the most of it though. I have bad days but the good days are the ones that matter. So much Love to you!!

[AZ1970]

You hit the nail on the head.

[matt17]

It does suck, having to live up to certain expectations like buying presents or putting on a face for your family. :/

[ElasticBand]

Remind yourself that this too shall pass as it has done before without pattern or notice and so give yourself permission to "just be" through this season on your own terms which in itself will give you a sort of sense of control. I find flipping between sleep (as and when), reading, music and comedy helps or simply resting and not venturing into the busy period of shopping but going at quieter times like the evening and odd days in the week whilst using earphones and an mp3 player to dictate your own theme tune when you go out rather than overwhelming Christmas music coming at you from all angles.

[baileyf14]

I am sorry you are dealing with this. Have you tried talking to someone about what you are going through? This always helps me because I need to let my feelings out and I know that a close friend or family member will be there for me when I need them most. I hope everything gets better!

[kenster1]

hey I struggle as well at this time of year.i get overcome with emotion mostly at new year even without a drink.my reasons are pretty much the same as yours.