THESE "ber" season is indeed a time to be jolly. However, there are some people who will not celebrate Christmas and remain gloomy and lonely. Who are these individuals?
Mentioned below are people who could be sad and lonely this Christmas season.
*Those who are medically ill and confinement in the hospital may extend beyond Christmas.
*Those who are terminally ill. Usually, a psychiatrist or a psychologist is part of the medical team looking after a terminally-ill individual.
*Those with untreated clinical depression. The more severe form of depression includes symptoms of fatigue or anergia (loss of energy), recurring feelings of worthlessness, guilt and insomnia almost daily.
*Those whose homes were destroyed by an environmental disaster. How can they celebrate when they are living temporarily in their barangay quarters?
*Those caught in the crossfire of war. Survival is their priority rather than celebrating Christmas.
*Those still in mourning or grieving for the recent, untimely demise of a significant loved one. This will be their first Christmas without them.
*Those whose loved one was lost at sea because of a typhoon. It is hard to grieve without seeing the body of their loved one.
*Those with relatives declared missing in action. The uncertainty of the survival or demise of their loved one is indeed difficult to handle.
*Those who recently lost their job. Without money, there will be no vacation and no celebration.
*Those who have been declared retired from service and apparently will just use their lump sum to pay their debts and will have a hard time accepting their new status. Will they re-create their status to become a retiree with an added expertise?
*Those who have recently been divorced, separated or whose marriage has been annulled and are still not adjusted to this new scenario.
*Those who were unsuccessful in passing a recent licensure exam. It is like the end of the world especially if they are banking on this particular exam for a better future.
Here are some suggestions to cope with loneliness these "ber" months:
*Prepare a festive meal for you and your family on Christmas Eve despite your sadness.
*Eat right and get enough sleep. Go out of your house and enjoy the sunlight. Brighten up your home. Donate material goods or volunteer your expertise for a cause. Spend time with people who cheer you up.
*Do calm breathing exercises and if possible, exercise daily. But avoid hectic activities that may increase your physical and emotional stress.
*Set realistic expectations for your family and friends during the holiday period. You may encourage all of you to get involved in a community activity and meet new people.
*If the above suggestions do not seem to work for you, please seek professional help. Usually, every private and government medical center has its own set of psychiatrists and psychologists.
We always remember that especially this most wonderful time of the year, there is hope and recovery from loneliness and depression available for everyone.
