Coping With Depression at Christmas: Finding Hope in the Holidays

The holidays are painted as a season of joy—but for many living with grief, depression, or loneliness, Christmas can feel unbearably heavy. This special holiday episode, written and read by author John Pavlovitz, is for those who struggle when everyone else seems to be celebrating.

If your heart feels heavy, if loss or depression has taken the light out of the season, this episode is a reminder: you are not alone. Millions share in this quiet grief, even if you never see their faces. And as hard as it is to imagine, the way you feel today will not always be the way you feel.

This Christmas, may these words remind you of two truths: you are not suffering alone—and this is not the end of your story.

Primary Topics Covered:

• The reality of struggling with depression and grief during the holidays
• Why Christmas can feel especially painful for those facing loss
• Messages for those battling depression, addiction, or self-hatred
• The weight of loneliness and separation during the season
• Hope that today’s pain is not the end of the story
• Encouragement for receiving the holidays exactly as you are
• The importance of solidarity with others who “get it”

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction to the special holiday episode
 00:48 - John Pavlovitz begins: “To those who struggle this Christmas…”
 01:15 - For those grieving losses and broken relationships
 02:30 - For those facing illness, hospital rooms, or funerals
 03:15 - For those battling depression, addiction, or inner demons
 04:00 - For those alone or separated from loved ones
 04:40 - Reminder: you are not alone in this struggle
 05:10 - This is not the end of your story—hope will return
 05:37 - Reflection on how words can bring solidarity
 05:50 - Resources and encouragement from Giving Voice to Depression

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