During the holidays, what can cause joy for some can remind others of loss and loneliness. Holidays are a source of depression for as much as 10 percent of the population, according to the National Mental Health Association. This year, such feelings can be amplified by the aftermath of the Sept. 11 tragedy, the loss of jobs and a hurting economy.
"The holiday season is the time of year that people come together to connect," said Dr. Gabriel Kaplan, the executive director of behavioral health sciences for St. Mary Hospital and a member of the Bon Secours and Canterbury Partnership for Care. "It’s the hardest time of year for those that have lost loved ones or lost their job, because they see everyone one around them connecting and expressing joy. That augments feelings of sadness."
Dr. Kaplan said that the most important thing to do is recognize the symptoms of depression and stress. Signs such as decreased appetite, weight loss, sleep disturbance, clenching jaw, sweaty palms, memory loss, a feeling that life is not worth living, and an inability to take pleasure in the activities that one used to enjoy the most. He added that if these symptoms last only a day or two, there’s most likely nothing to be concerned about, but if problems persist for more than two weeks, it is important to seek help.
"It’s important to take that first step and ask for help," Kaplan says. "It doesn’t matter what your port of entry is, whether it is your priest or a family doctor or a professional mental health worker. It only matter that you talk to someone. These types of behavioral issues are often of a medical nature. They are illnesses for which there are very effective treatments available. If you don’t ask for help you are depriving yourself of treatment."
Sept. 11 and the holidays
A difficult time for many has been made that much more arduous by tragedy and a sour economy. "There are a lot of people out there that are feeling vulnerable," said Hoboken’s Health Office Frank Sasso Tuesday. "People are looking for assurances that they are safe. This was a complete frontal assault and people are still frightened and upset. Couple that with those who lost a loved one and the holidays can lead to devastating anxiety."
Dr. Kaplan said that many in the area are just starting to experience Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a condition that often lies dormant several months before it surfaces. PTSD is found in those who experienced, witnessed, or were confronted with an event or events that involved actual or threatened death or serious injury, or a threat to the physical integrity of self or others. They can keep flashing back to the event and experience intense fear, helplessness, or horror.
Experts estimate that a quarter or more of those affected may have symptoms severe enough to interfere with everyday life for months and even years later.
In New York City, the number of counseling sessions by area therapists grew by more than 20 percent after the attacks, according to data prepared for a Columbia University study. And the Center for Mental Health Services, and agency of the federal government run by the Department of Health and Human Services, has estimated that 1.5 million people in the tri-state area will eventually need therapy for terror-induced psychological problems.
"It’s OK to celebrate the holidays," said Sasso. "Be with friends and family. There’s no reason to feel guilty about enjoying yourself during this time of year. It’s actually quite healthy and part of the healing process."
Preventive measures
Both Kaplan and Sasso said it is exceedingly important to take care of yourself in times of excessive stress. Watch what you eat. Avoid over-indulging in goodies. Eat regular meals. Get plenty of rest, exercise regularly and limit the consumption of alcohol.
Recognize the symptoms of holiday stress and don’t be afraid to seek help if they persist.
One source for help in Hoboken is the St. Mary Mental Health Center (CMHC). The Community Mental Health Center, located at 506 Third St. The staff consists of trained, certified mental health specialists, crisis workers, nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and substance abuse counselors who will help individuals and families find the solutions to the problems that interfere with living a well-adjusted, happy, and productive life.
Offering long and short-term care, the CMHC has the facilities and the expertise to help people through the difficult times, from those suffering from severe mental illness to those in need of marriage and crisis counseling. The CMHC also offers care for seniors who may be suffering from depression, outpatient emergency screenings and assessments, and a parenting center.
In an emergency, the CMHC offers a 24-hour hotline, (201) 795-5505.
There is also a local support group ongoing for people who lost someone in the Sept. 11 attacks. Call (201) 653-1980 for more information.