The following is from a series on self-care to help you through the holidays.  So here’s wishing you a cruelty free Christmas or joyous holiday!

Avoid alcohol.  If you struggle at all with depression, avoid alcohol during the holidays.  Alcohol is a depressant and you’ll only feel worse.  If you’re invited to a party where you think people will be drinking, plan on making it a short visit and brings something that can pass for a drink.  I love to drink sparkling water with a twist of lime.  While alcohol can be sort of fun, for some people it’s addictive, and for others it increases depression.