How to Survive the Pressures of Holiday Spending During Difficult Economic Times

For many of us, the month of December is one of the happiest times of the year, conjuring images of Christmas trees, menorahs, festively wrapped presents and the gathering of family and friends. However, some people experience a different type of feeling around the holidays, known as holiday depression. This condition (which is not the same as seasonal affective disorder) can arise in people of all ages.

During the holidays, there is a general pressure to be happy because it is supposed to be a time for celebration (Carol, 106-121), if ...