Keeping your depression in check during the holidays

The world may be decorated to the hilt for the holiday season, but the people surrounding these decorations have gone totally chaotic.

I have never heard of so many murders, suicides and just plain insanity this holiday season.

Two people have jumped to their deaths on the I-95 overpass in Palm Beach Gardens. A murder on Singer Island this past weekend over money. The Virginia Tech tragedy for no apparent reason. Must I go on?

People are stressed, depressed and have just gone plain mad. It is so sad to see the victims in these cases. Lost loved ones for no feasible reason. 

Yes, the recession is rough on most people. But suffering from depression and lashing out on innocent victims is also no answer. 

Suicide is always on the rise this time of year. Call it seasonal depression without treatment. If you suffer from it, you need to get help. Taking out your hate and rage on an innocent person is not the answer.

Palm Beach County does offer free help for those who are on the edge. You just have to ask. If a family member isn't acting right. Giving away their possessions, an elated mood after a severe depression usually means the person is planning on a suicide attempt. Step in. They may hate you temporarily, but down the road they will thank you. Tough love is often the only answer.

For anyone in the Palm Beaches who is struggling with an addiction, the following links may be helpful. CARP is a detox center which also takes in people who are not working and cannot pay for their treatment. It's an excellent facility with a terrific staff. Here is their link:  http://www.carpinc.org/   The second rehab center is also in West Palm Beach, Hazelden Treatment Center. An excellent treatment center that also takes in teens and adults alike. Here is their link:  http://www.hazelden.org/web/landing.view