The holidays are a wonderful time, characterized by activities and opportunities to spend time with family and loved ones. However the holidays can also present added financial and relationship pressures, and a sense of loss as we take time to reflect on the challenges we have faced throughout the year. These factors can elicit feelings of loneliness and despair, making it difficult to recover. Signs of depression can emerge even in the midst of the spirit of the season.

Photo credit Roger Teel

Lt. Col. Gregory Gadson (right) promoted former battle buddy, Sgt. Eric Brown, to his present rank. Gadson credited Brown with saving his life after an improvised explosive device destroyed both of his legs in Iraq in 2007.

DCoE staff recently presented on the “Total Fitness” concept at the “Defining Total Fitness in the 21st Century” workshop at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. This initiative reinforces and encourages healthy physical, emotional, social and spiritual behavior for all service members and their families. It’s important for us to remember that we must continually recharge our batteries to make sure we are prepared to handle the demands life places on us while living life to the fullest—enjoying all of the great opportunities we get to experience! To do this we need to eat well, get enough sleep and exercise and spend time with friends and loved ones to stay connected. Keeping enough fuel in your tank by taking care of yourself will help you sustain, even if things get difficult.

However if you or someone you know is really having a tough time, it is more important than ever to connect. In the book Why People Die by Suicide, Dr. Thomas Joiner identifies three emotional elements someone at-risk for suicide may be feeling – invisible or alone; a burden to their loved ones; and desensitized to violence, pain and injury.

The important first step in overcoming these feelings is to let someone else know about how tough things are. It’s amazing how significant the impact can be when we gain enough courage and strength to connect with someone when life feels overwhelming. Reaching out can help you begin to gain the momentum needed to move forward. Below are some of the warning signs to look out for when you or someone else may need help.

• Showing signs of depression, including deep sadness, loss of interest, trouble sleeping and eating
• Talking about feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
• Talking or writing about death and ways to die
• Loss of interest in things that used to be important
• Abrupt mood swings, from extreme sadness to happiness or calm
• Withdrawing from others
• Giving things away

If you are worried about someone who is demonstrating some of the above warning signs, ask if they are feeling hopeless or suicidal. Be there for them, and don’t be afraid to immediately take action by escorting them to safety and seeking professional help.

1. Call the 24-hour, confidential National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, at 1-800-273-TALK
2. Visit the Real Warriors Campaign Web site, where you can find tips for recognizing and coping with concerning behavior, actions and feelings in yourself and others
3. Contact the DCoE Outreach Center toll-free at 1-866-966-1020, via e-mail, resources@dcoeoutreach.net or through online chat at the Real Warriors Campaign Web site. Open 24/7, the center is staffed by experienced and compassionate health resource consultants who provide confidential help for psychological health and traumatic brain injury issues

Have a great holiday season and take care of yourself and each other!