18 December 2008

Take care of your mental health over the holiday season

Christmas holidays are usually thought of as the time of year to relax and forget about the pressures of the year. For many Australians, the festive season can also be a time of increased stress, overwhelming pressure, disappointment or loneliness.

Clinical Adviser to beyondblue: the national depression initiative, Associate Professor Michael Baigent, says some people may be particularly susceptible to triggers for depression and anxiety during the holiday period.

"At Christmas time especially, there may be too many expectations. There are also financial pressures that put the spotlight on relationships and family issues - with the current economic situation adding to this pressure," he said. "As with any anniversary, memories of distressing or sad events can come back into focus. For example, if someone close has recently passed away, the holiday season tends to magnify the absence of the person."

Dr Baigent says there are ways to recognise the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety in yourself or someone else early. "In yourself, if you've had depression before, be aware of those symptoms leading to depression. If you haven't, watch for the loss of ability to function normally, out-of-character behaviour, suicidal thoughts, feeling like there is no hope for the future, not being able to sleep or eat or feeling nervous and anxious.

"In other people, you may notice they withdraw and no longer seem to enjoy themselves, are overly moody and may appear to have slowed down or may get angry easily.

"It's important to think realistically about the holidays. If you're facing the holiday season without your family and you know you'll find it difficult, plan ahead to make sure you'll be spending time with people you like. Being alone when everyone else appears to be with their families may increase feelings of isolation."

beyondblue CEO Leonie Young is encouraging everyone to take care of themselves, their friends and family this holiday season. "Many people build up to this time of year with great hopes only to feel disappointed if their hopes aren't fulfilled. This time can also be very stressful with the pressure of buying gifts, preparing food and catering for family, friends or visitors," she said.

"It's important to note that stress linked to the festive season should not be confused with depression. If the stress continues however, it can lead to distress which in some instances, may lead to depression.

"No one should feel like they have to keep silent about depression or anxiety. beyondblue's info line - 1300 22 4636 - will operate 24/7 over the holiday period for anyone needing information on depression, anxiety and related drug and alcohol problems. A list of symptoms of depression and anxiety, checklists and other information about effective treatments and how to help someone can be found at www.beyondblue.org.au. If you need urgent assistance call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467."

Over the holiday season, LOOK for the signs and symptoms of depression. LISTEN to what your friends and family members are saying about how they feel and if necessary, TALK about seeking help together.

Tips on how to help someone with depression

People with depression often don't see the point of doing anything and may feel that no one can really help them. Helping someone who isn't ready to recognise they need assistance may be very difficult.

DO - It's helpful to: 

• spend time talking about the person's experiences with them 
• indicate that you've noticed a change in the person's behaviour 
• let the person know you're there to listen without being judgmental 
• suggest the person talks to a doctor or mental health professional 
• help the person to make an appointment and/or go with the person to see a doctor or mental health professional 
• ask the person how the appointment went 
• talk openly about depression and help the person to find information 
• encourage the person to exercise, eat well and become involved in social activities 
• keep in touch and encourage close friends and family to do the same.
  

DON'T - It's unhelpful to: 

• pressure the person to 'snap out of it', 'get their act together' or 'cheer up' 
• stay away or avoid the person 
• tell the person he/she just needs to stay busy or get out more 
• pressure the person to party more or wipe out how they're feeling with drugs or
  alcohol 
• assume the problem will just go away.

For more information about depression, effective treatments and how to help someone visit www.beyondblue.org.au or call the beyondblue info line on 1300 22 4636.

For urgent assistance call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.