Depression on the holidays is common

For most people, the start of the holiday season brings feelings of joy and anticipation.

But for those who have lost a loved one, the holidays can be viewed with dread and depression.

Family traditions will never be the same, and many people suffer from loneliness and depression.

However, there are things you can do to help alleviate some of the stress and worry that surrounds this time of year.

According to www.griefshare.org, strategies can help those grieving during the holiday season.

--Prioritize and plan what is important this holiday season. Changing traditions might get you out of a depressed rut. Try volunteering and helping people in need. You will feel better about yourself, and it will give you something to smile about when you see the good impact you are having on someone's life.

--Accept your limitations this season. You probably depended on a loved one in the past to help you get things done. If they are no longer around, make sure to keep other important people in your life up-to-date on your situation and let them know what to expect this season. Start buying presents earlier. This will allow you to mitigate some of the financial burden that dealing with the loss of a loved one often brings.

--Ask for and accept help. Your friends and loved ones probably are looking for ways to spend time with you, and by allowing them to help you this season, you will have more energy to focus on things that are higher on your priority list.

--Living in and enjoying the present can be a way to get your mind off of the past. Think about the great things that are still a part of your life, not comparing the sadness of today with the happy times of years past.

--Reconnect with an old friend or relative. Make it a point to talk to someone who used to be in your life, but for whatever reason, is no longer. You might be surprised at the joy connecting with past friends can bring you in your time of need.

Remember to make time for yourself. If there was something you enjoyed doing by yourself when your loved one was alive, keep doing it. Remember that you are important and need time to enjoy yourself.

When times get really bad, remember the true meaning of the holidays. Take the time to write down exactly what the holidays mean to you. Take those core values and celebrate them with the people who still are with you.