Depression During the Holidays: Finding Comfort When Christmas Feels Heavy

For many, the holidays bring joy, connection, and celebration. But for others, they can be some of the hardest days of the year. If you’re struggling with grief, loneliness, or depression this Christmas, this short episode is for you.

Author John Pavlovitz reads his heartfelt essay “To Those Who Struggle This Christmas,” offering words of comfort, understanding, and solidarity for anyone feeling heavy, disconnected, or broken during a season that often demands cheerfulness.

You are not alone. These words are a reminder that your story is not over, your pain is valid, and brighter days can still come.

Link to John's essay:
https://johnpavlovitz.com/2017/12/24/to-those-who-struggle-this-christmas/

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why the holidays can feel especially painful when living with depression
• Grief, loss, and the weight of empty chairs at the table
• The impact of loneliness and separation during Christmas
• Depression, addiction, and inner struggles heightened by the season
• How societal expectations of joy can worsen feelings of isolation
• Finding comfort in knowing others share your pain
• A reminder that this moment is not the end of your story
• Encouragement to receive the holidays as they are, without guilt

Timestamps:
 00:00 – Introduction by Anita and Terry
 00:42 – Invitation to community support on the GVTD Facebook group
 01:16 – John Pavlovitz begins reading his essay “To Those Who Struggle This Christmas”
02:10 – Acknowledging grief, loss, and broken relationships during the holidays
03:15 – The added weight of depression, addiction, and personal demons
04:20 – Reminders that you are not alone in your struggle
05:30 – Encouragement that this is not the end of your story
05:52 – Closing reflections from Anita and Terry
06:05 – Final encouragement: speak up if you’re struggling, and listen if someone else is

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Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
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