It's the Most Difficult Time of the Year

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If you’re struggling with mental health issues, the Christmas season may not be “the most wonderful time of the year.” So, with apologies to Andy Williams:

It’s the Most Difficult Time of the Year

It’s the most difficult time of the year,
With the hustle and bustle
And gift shopping tussles while feigning good cheer
It’s the most difficult time of the year.
It’s the har-har-hardest season of all
With therapy sessions for winter depression
The stress of it all
It’s the most difficult time of the year

There’ll be tense office parties
Dysfunctional families
And feelings as cold as the snow
There’s grief for lost loved ones
And trauma by someone from
Christmases long, long ago
It’s the most difficult time of the year.

So, please extend some holiday love and understanding to friends and family just trying to survive this time of the year.

And if you’re one of those struggling . . .

1. Know that you are not alone


2. Eat healthy


3. Get plenty of sleep


4. Say no to unnecessary social obligations


5. Reach out for help from friends and professionals


6. Reach out to help others Sponsor a child through the Salvation Army, volunteer at a soup kitchen, bake cookies for shut-ins


7. Watch your favorite Christmas movies


8. Listen to Christmas music Or better yet, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” Buddy the Elf


9. Strive for a meaningful rather than “merry” Christmas


10. Focus on being loved by a God willing to come to earth to be with you (That’s the reason for the season!)

Copyright © 2019 James N. Watkins