Christmas depression
Christmas est l’une des fêtes les plus célébrées à travers le monde. Dans les villes, scintillent les lumières, alors que partout résonnent des chants joyeux. Les maisons et commerces prennent un air de fête, les sapins s’illuminent, les couronnes et guirlandes ornent les devantures des demeures. Dans les foyers, y règne une certaine fébrilité, et les préparatifs vont bon train. On s’active autour de la cuisinière, on s’ingénie à trouver des cadeaux, et les enfants espèrent la venue du Santa Claus. Mais tous ne sont pas dans cette ambiance festive. Si pour certains Noël est synonyme de réjouissances, de joie, et de regroupements familiaux, pour d’autres, il est un élément déclencheur de déprime ou de rechutes de dépression.
Sadness invades lonely souls and suicidal thoughts surface. Broken families, grief, job loss, divorce, and loneliness contribute greatly to this depressive state. Every year, as Christmas approaches, we see a rise in the number of depressions and suicides to a certain extent. However, it should be noted that the decrease in light contributes to the winter blues, and while not being the sole culprit, this depression, combined with the end-of-year celebrations, only increases.
Family conflicts and old grudges also play a significant role in the holiday blues. Rather than attend family gatherings, some prefer to isolate themselves and brood. And for those who no longer have family to visit, the sadness is even deeper. Simply witnessing scenes of reunions, or seeing passersby exchange greetings in the streets, is enough to accentuate this feeling of depression.
To banish gloom and ward off depression, people are strongly advised not to spend Christmas alone. Neighbors, friends, and neighborhood associations are likely organizing a small Christmas Eve party that lonely people can join in. Giving gifts and getting involved in the preparations can also help banish gloom. And when the budget allows, escaping to the South, taking a vacation, or going skiing are all solutions to counter the Christmas blues.