Stress and depression: holidays

by Lucille O’Donnell

So often during the Advent and Christmas seasons we hear the greeting from others, "Happy Holidays." What does that mean in one of the holiest seasons of the church year? We prepare for Christmas weeks before with parties, shopping, Christmas music and much activity. Christmas trees go up before Thanksgiving. We have been celebrating the holy day for weeks before the holy day. We have learned very well how to secularize everything about it. Is there any wonder that there is stress leading to depression?

Perhaps this is the year to slow down during Advent and reflect on its meaning. It is important to prepare for Christmas but do we need to start so early that when the day comes we have forgotten that this is the day Christ was born; a day to keep holy. Is there time to pray with the Advent wreath before the Christmas tree?

Lucille O’Donnell is assistant professor of Occupational Therapy, College of St. Catherine St. Paul, MN.

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