Perfect people, perfect families, perfect houses, perfect Christmas trees and perfect presents – that’s the image we see for weeks before Christmas. It often seems that perfect has become the new “normal”.  And many of us become depressed realizing that our life is miles away from the “perfect” picture.

There can be various triggers of Christmas depression. Whether it is financial stress, feeling of loneliness or suffering from the loss of loved ones or job issues, with awareness and action, we can ensure that depression doesn’t take hold. First of all if you feel that you are not coping or find your life is affected by stress or low mood, seek help of a caring and supportive therapist who can help you understand the causes and what you can do to support yourself.

Here are some tips from our head therapist, Dr Ali Shakir:

• Christmas is not about expensive presents. Always remember that the expectations of others are not the only way to set standards. Find your own way, be comfortable and be happy. Children much prefer to see happy parents than expensive toys.
• We are not living in a perfect world and “perfect” is an impossible ideal. Plus, it means something different to everyone. What’s wrong with being simply human – some things will go right, some things will go wrong. Frankly, who cares?
• If you’re lonely or need company, volunteer for a soup kitchen or other charitable cause. You’ll meet great people and do some good.  This also keeps you busy and around other people.  Also think about which of your friends may be spending Christmas alone and do something together.
• Stop to think about why you are stressed rather than continuing to be stressed – is it because you’re worried what the in-laws will think of your cooking? Well, why does that matter so much to you?  Is it because you’re worried about things being perfect? Why does that matter?
• If you are missing someone you have lost at Christmas, find a way to bring their memory into the festivities and allow their presence in a loving way.

If you have more tips that could help, feel free to write it in the comments below.