From Melancholic Mummy

Dear You,

I am the ghost of Christmas yet to come. I am here to offer you hope, and some words of wisdom. 

I can see you preparing for Christmas present, you’re going through the motions of gift buying, making lists for turkeys and potatoes, and putting up the decorations … all with a false smile on your face. Inside I know that you’re crying, sobbing. You’ve felt like this for six months but you are too proud to admit how you’re feeling and ask for help. You struggle to get out of bed, you are angry and aggressive, you cry everyday, you see no purpose in life and no future, you think of ways to die and end your suffering. But as the ghost of  Christmas yet to come, I can assure you that there is a future for you. It will be a difficult and emotional journey getting there, but it is worth the fight.

You need to find the courage to ask for help, it is not a sign of weakness to admit that you are struggling with life, it is the bravest thing you will do. Talk to your husband, your Mum, Doctor … anyone who will listen.

Be patient. You will feel better, but take one day at a time. You will not wake up one morning with a miraculous Scrooge-like transformation. You will have good days and bad, but eventually the majority will be good and you will start to enjoy life again.

Do not cut off your friends. You will be surprised how understanding and accepting they are of you. Next time they phone you, answer it. Next time they send a text message, reply. Your friends will get you through some of your toughest times if you give them the chance to help.

Do not blame yourself for having depression. There is nothing you could have done to prevent it; it is not your fault. Think of it as any other illness, like the flu.

You may not see a light at the end of the very dark tunnel you are in right now, but trust me – your future is full of bright, sparkly Christmas tree lights.

Take care of yourself,

From the ghost of Christmas yet TO COME