MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- The holiday season can be a time full of joy, cheer, parties and family gatherings, but, for many people, it is a time of self-evaluation, loneliness, reflection on past failures and anxiety about an uncertain future.
These feelings can breed stress and lead to many personally destructive actions such as increased consumption of alcohol and unwise financial decisions. Both of which can lead to suicidal thoughts, according to the National Mental Health Association.
"Stress is about how we think, how we feel and how we act," said Crystal Dilliard, certified health promotions director for Marine Corps Community Services - South Carolina. "The holidays are a very stressful time of year. People are busier, and there is an increased financial burden. Stress is also elevated when people find themselves separated from their loved ones."
Dilliard, who is a registered nurse, acknowledged that the high-level of stress that accompany the holidays do not mean that everyone is going to be depressed and have suicidal thoughts, but the Tri-Command offers many programs to help those who do.
Along with command sponsored Professional Military Education that address the physical, mental and spiritual health of Tri-Command personnel throughout the holiday season, Semper Fit Health Promotions offers guidance and a referral program to Marines and sailors who face mounting holiday related problems.
"A Marine is not going to come forward and say, 'I'm lonely,'" said Gayle Wierzbicki, drug demand reduction coordinator for the Tri-Command/ Eastern Recruiting Region. "The individual commands need to know who is going to need to be away for the holidays and who is not - and who is going to need support."
Wierzbicki said that she would like to see an "Adopt-a-Marine" program that provides Marines who cannot make it home a place to spend the holidays in a family atmosphere.
"There is a large number of people who suffer holiday depression caused by loneliness, financial strain and stress," said Wierzbicki. "The Tri-Command has many programs in place to help. Marines should know there are plenty of people in place to assist them."
If you find yourself growing overwhelmed with the pressures of the holiday season, a good first step toward relief can be a visit to the National Mental Health Association Web site. It offers many simple, yet helpful, solutions to coping with stress and depression during the holiday season:
? Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable. Try to set realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Do not put entire focus on just one day (such as Thanksgiving Day) - remember it is a season of holiday sentiment, and activities can be spread out to lessen stress and increase enjoyment.
? Remember the holiday season does not banish reasons for feeling sad or lonely. There is room for these feelings, even if you choose not to express them.
? Leave "yesteryear" in the past and look toward the future. Life brings changes. Each season is different and can be enjoyed individually. Do not set yourself up in comparing today with the "good ol' days."
? Do something for someone else: Try volunteering some time to help others.
? Enjoy activities that are free: Such as driving around to look at holiday decorations; going window-shopping without buying; making a snowman with children.
? Be aware that excessive drinking will only increase your feelings of depression.
? Try something new: Celebrate the holidays in a new way.
? Spend time with supportive and caring people: Reach out and make new friends or contact someone you have not heard from for a while.
? Save time for yourself: Recharge your batteries. Let others share responsibility of activities.
For more information on dealing with holiday stress, visit the National Mental Health Association Web site at www.nmha.org. For local assistance with problems associated with holiday stress, call Semper Fit Health Promotions at 228-7010. Units interested in a brief on holiday stress and the dangers that can manifest from it, can call Wierzbicki at 228-2552.