Depression ~

     This season often evokes feelings of nostalgia, yet for some, this holiday time stirs up dread more than eager anticipation.

     Some are alone; others have lost someone special, and the void is immense. Still, others have endured such a hard year that celebrating seems inappropriate. Worldmetric.org statistics estimates:

• “Over 25% of people experience anxiety or depression during the holiday season.”

• “In the United States, suicide rates increase by 40% around the holidays.”

• “1 in 10 Americans report feeling lonely during the holidays.”

• “Up to 45% of people feel more isolated or lonely during the holiday season.”

• “About 15% of people feel a sense of loss or grief during the holidays.”

  
  

     Evidently, depression is a very real struggle especially during the holiday season, and the enemy will use any angle to bring us down. He even uses picture-perfect portrayals to pressure us to live up to unrealistic ideals, and when real life doesn’t replicate the images on screen, we fall prey to his lies that we didn’t do enough, aren’t enough, etc. It’s critical for us to remember that though the world has its ideals, ideals are hardly ever attainable.

     I’m sure we’ve all lived long enough to know some situations are completely out of our control. The loss of a loved one, relationship, job, opportunity. Unforeseen trials, hardships, challenges. And, so much more. Yet, still we blame ourselves, others, or even God for the lack, the hurt, the pain.

     However, to those who are hurting, let me say, grieve; it is more than okay. But, please, don’t stay in your grief. Allow our Savior to hold you, comfort you, and unburden you. In your pain, in your loneliness, in your anger, and even in your doubt, cry out to Him! He is our only peace, our true hope, and in Him alone we find everlasting joy. Please, do not give the enemy a foothold through depression. Seek counsel. Ask for prayer. And do not isolate yourself.

     And for those who know someone struggling this season. Ask God to show you how to love them through it. And, above all, pray for, with, and over them!

God bless you! <3

Tera