Avoiding the Holiday Blues: Depression

  • Published
  • By Chaplain (Maj.) Phil Llanos
  • 95th Air Base Wing Chapel
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  A comment that is often heard here at Edwards is "We are out in the middle of nowhere." The Base Exchange even sells a T-shirt with this theme. As I go about talking to people, I often ask if Edwards was on their list for assignments. Most of the time, Edwards was not their first choice and many did not know where Edwards is. Unhappiness, combine with the holiday season which is under way can lead to depression.

It has been said that if you want to be depressed, just spend some time thinking about what you don't have. It is so easy to do this during the holidays, especially if one might be separated from family and friends. Some might have families that live far away and others may not have the means or money to travel and be with them during the holidays. The feeling of isolation and thinking about what is missing in one's life can lead to being negative and feeling depressed.

Depression, as described on the Internet, is "a mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a despondent lack of activity" During the holidays some can be vulnerable to feeling alone or depressed.

It has also been said that if you don't want to be depressed, just spend some time being thankful for what you do have. For many who have been deployed or live overseas, we miss the everyday things we have here at Edwards. We miss our family, friends, and coworkers. We miss toilets that flush and are not two blocks away from our cots. We take private bathrooms for granted, the comforts of our living rooms and bedrooms and the ability to go to Lancaster, Calif. to shop, see a movie, go to dinner.

If you notice someone feeling down or depressed, take the time to talk to them. Help them see the everyday blessings we take for granted here at Edwards. If needed, refer them to a chaplain, counselor, or one of the helping agencies on base or surrounding community.

If you notice someone having a tough time, take the time to talk and care. Refer them to the Chapel, Life Skills, or one of the other helping agencies.

Chaplains can be reached during duty hours at 277-2110 and after duty hours through the Command Post at 277-3040.