Residents share some of their holiday stories Wednesday as Amedisys Hospice Care in Butler put on a holiday seminar at Shelbourne Assisted Living in Penn Township.

PENN TWP — Depression can set in during the holidays, but there are ways to combat it and enjoy the season.

That was the word from Lindsay Pawlowicz, the bereavement coordinator for Amedisys Hospice Care, who gave a presentation on the subject Wednesday at Shelbourne Personal Care.

Pawlowicz said the depression and stress that can accompany mistletoe and holly can be caused by many situations.

The loss of a loved one can cause sadness during the holidays, Pawlowicz said, but she has a recommendation for those who are grieving.

“Don't mourn them, but memorialize them,” she said. “Take the time to do something that helps you remember them in a good way.”

The stress of buying and wrapping gifts, hosting and attending multiple parties, trying to squeeze the buying, baking and entertaining into a few weeks' time, and the fatigue caused by those activities can also cause holiday depression and stress.

Financial constraints can also be a burden during the holidays, whether it's having enough money for presents, being able to pay bills and buy gifts, or simply not being financially set up to shower family and friends in booty.

Pawlowicz said of the many gifts she has received in her life, the handmade ones were the most special and held lasting warmth when used.

“You can make a special ornament or Christmas card or knit or crochet an item,” she said. “Personally, I prefer a handmade gift.”

The inability to spend the holidays with family and friends can also be a source of depression or anxiety, Pawlowicz said.

She said in the case of those in a care facility, busy family members may not be able to visit as often or on the holiday.

“It's not something to take personally,” Pawlowicz said.

Among the elderly, signs of depression include loss of appetite or interest in normal activities, fatigue or self-isolation.

To cope with symptoms of depression at the holidays, Pawlowicz recommended helping others, volunteering, enjoying activities like looking at Christmas lights, getting involved in a community or church activity or seeking out programs on holiday depression like the free one offered by Amedisys.

She cautioned against excessive drinking or other negative behaviors to deal with holiday blues.

“Excessive drinking does not cure the issue,” Pawlowicz said, “it only temporarily hides it.”

She advised those at the presentation to engage in relaxing activities like reading or crossword puzzles over the holidays.

“Take time for yourself,” Pawlowicz said. “Recharge your batteries and share the responsibilities of the holidays.”

Sherri Reno, the administrator at Shelbourne, said the presentation was scheduled because of factors she has seen at the facility.

“As the holidays approach, it seems depression becomes more prevalent,” Reno said.

She hoped the residents who attended the presentation learned ways to cope with the holiday blues.