Depression at Christmas: Coping with Loneliness and Grief During the Holidays

Christmas can be especially difficult for those living with depression, grief, or loneliness. While many people celebrate joy and togetherness, others quietly struggle to get through the day.

In this special holiday episode of Giving Voice to Depression, writer and pastor John Pavlovitz offers a compassionate message for anyone who feels out of place during the holidays. His words acknowledge the pain, losses, and internal battles that don’t disappear just because it’s Christmas.

This episode is a reminder that you are not alone. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, facing depression, or simply trying to survive the season, you’ll hear encouragement, solidarity, and hope that brighter days are still ahead.

Link to John's article, if you'd like a copy or to read vs. hear it is linked here: johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-th…-this-christmas/

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why Christmas can feel especially painful for those with depression or grief
• Acknowledging loneliness, loss, and invisible struggles during the holidays
• Reassurance that you are not the only one hurting on Christmas
• Compassionate words of hope from John Pavlovitz
• Encouragement to accept the season as it is and hold on for better days

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction from Terry: why this special episode matters
 00:48 – John Pavlovitz’s essay begins: addressing those struggling this Christmas
 02:00 – Recognizing the reality of grief, depression, and broken expectations
 03:20 – Naming invisible struggles: internal battles we don’t talk about
 04:20 – Words of comfort: you are not suffering alone
 05:00 – Hopeful reminder: this season is not the end of your story
 05:37 – Closing reflections and encouragement for the days ahead

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