Hello editor

I am glad to find out that the myth of suicide increasing around the holidays has been challenged. The holidays have changed drastically since their origin, as has our general environment. History and philosophy tell us that myths were created as a protective measure, tailored to perpetuate man's survival based on his environment. Modern evolution changed the majority of the world, leaving us with outdated bits of information that have been passed down from one generation to the next. Many myths simply do not apply any longer.

There are those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, known as SAD. Shorter days and lack of light are considered one of the causes, especially in extreme northern climates. Many of the symptoms are the same as those of depression. Lack of enough sunshine during the winter months can be counteracted by specialized lamps to aid those who are diagnosed with SAD; and an anti-depressant may also be prescribed by your doctor.

That being said, loneliness knows no season. You also do not have to be alone to be lonely. I have felt lonely in a room full of people more on more than one occasion.

I do greatly admire you for giving the generous gift of yourself. Sometimes that is all one needs, not only around the holidays.

Unfortunately, I have carried over some of my melancholic ways due to my person holiday experiences during childhood. It seems more comfortable to for me to isolate somewhat, but it is never too late for a change. I have often thought of volunteering around the holidays, but felt I had to be 'happy' to make someone else feel better. I now see things a bit differently because I have discovered that it brings me great joy to make someone else feel better.

Thank you for addressing this particular myth. I am sure it will be helpful to many.

~~ A_T

Hello A_T!

Coming from NE Ohio, and living in a little cabin in the woods, do I ever relate to SAD although I do not have it. I do desire the sun so much, no longer to sun bathe, but I think it was a brilliant moment of God to create the sun and the effects that bright light therapy has upon all. I am not a fan of winter and that would be a number one reason. Yes, you are right that this time of year is a good time to be aware that a great many of people who typically enjoy mental health, do not during this period of time. Thank you so much for initiating that observation!

Oh boy: "That being said, loneliness knows no season." Once more you waste no time going to the bone---you go straight to the marrow. :) I am a loner and it is solitude that helps me. It just took me years and years to discover that suits me much better than being surrounded by people where I do feel isolation and loneliness. I think that you might feel comfortable in your own skin too?

I believe childhood memories make or break us as we mature into adults and have to make new traditions to make the holidays meaningful or to make us want to avoid them. A_T, I know all about plastering on a cheerful face because it is expected. Once again you nailed it, "I have discovered that it brings me great joy to make someone else feel better." Boy, was that sweet.

So even if you have not found your way to avoiding the trappings of holidays past, or creating holidays new, you will certainly find something of meaning that can be your very own created tradition. You have learned the true gift of "gift exchange" at Christmas.