HOPE for the Holidays

Something to think about...

The holidays are a time of great hope and also a time of great hopelessness. It seems that those hurts and burdens that we have tried to surpress during the year return with a heighten awareness during this season. This can be caused by many reasons but let's talk about some ways to try to give ourselves a pick me up this year.

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group there are some things we can do to help us beat the holiday blahs.


1. First and foremost, keep a postive attitude. Everything is attitude and this is true here as well. Do not focus on things that are outside your area of influence or control. Just be.


2.Choose to limit amount of time you spent with family members if there are unresolved issues. If your plans change for the holidays be sure let the family know as soon as possible.

3. Set a budget and stick to it.

4.Exercise is key to your overall health. It helps releave stress and keeps the blues at bay.


5. Get plenty of rest, try to maintain your usual sleep pattern. If you do not have a usual sleep pattern, give yourself that gift for the holidays.


6.Think about a change of pace. You may decide that you don't want to get involved with the usual round of Christmas parties and meals, if so, there are a variety of charities that could use your help during this season. Be sure to call and offer well in advance and spend it with people a lot less fortunate.


If these tips don't help you. Think about reaching out for help. There are people who care and you should not have to suffer through this alone.

I would also encourage you to visit www.churchofthehighlands.com. The current message series is about HOPE. The messages are recorded and you can watch them on line at your convenience.