While the holidays do bring joy to so many people, it can also be a time of struggle for many others.

Dr. Nicholas Mitchell is the medical director of addictions and mental health in Alberta, and he says that people who are dealing with a loss or have had a major change in their life recently could be feeling especially low during the holidays. He says "If the holidays are a reminder of a loss or a significant anniversary, if its the first holiday they're spending without a loved one or if there's been a major change in their life it can add stress. For folks who are struggling because they're isolated from their support system and feeling like they don't have people to reach out to it can be even more difficult."

Dr. Mitchell says that it's important to reach out for help. He says "The tendency when people are feeling depressed or anxious can be to isolate themselves because of the stigma, but these aren't the types of things that will resolve spontaneously. Usually, A change is required, and sometimes that can be as simple as having someone to talk to."

Mitchell says that clinical depression is a slow and gradual process that it can be difficult to recognize changes in your own behaviour. He says "The onset of clinical depression is very slow, it happens gradually and it's the sort of thing where you might not notice a change from one day to the next, but over time there are subtle shifts. Often it's the folks around you that will notice those changes in your behaviour."

Mitchell says that reaching out to your natural support system can really make a huge difference, and if you think you or someone you know is in serious danger, seek professional help. For help provincially you can call the mental health helpline at 1-877-303-2642 or by dialling 811 you will be connected to a mental health nurse.