Another year has come to an end, bringing with it the holiday season. A season that so many people look forward to. Here at Sprucewoods, we start getting ready for Christmas right after Thanksgiving. Staff and residents get into the holiday spirit and start decorating the building inside and out. We have many different decorations that have become tradition at Sprucewoods. Many of them have been donated by staff or their families to help make the residents’ Christmas bright. There is a tree for each apartment and the residents have fun trimming them by hanging lights, ornaments, and putting their names on the stockings. As the festivity of the season’s Christmas lights shine through winter’s early dark nights, we reminisce of years past, make presents for family and friends, and the clients who enjoy baking make cookies and treats for our annual Christmas party.
Christmas can be a time for residents to be able to set their problems aside, focus on spreading holiday cheer, and do nice things for the people they care about. They share stories and laughter while they talk about some of their favorite memories. It, however, is important to acknowledge that with all the “good” there can be also be some “bad.” Holidays aren’t always happy for all. A person can feel insufficient if they don’t have the means to purchase that “perfect” gift for a loved one. Perhaps they are unable to spend time with their family or friends. It could be the first holiday season after losing a loved one; or the vacant spot at the dining room table that has been empty for years feels like it is too much to bear this year. Grief and stress can be overwhelming in these times and it can manifest in the increased likelihood of depression and anxiety. In these instances, a system of support to help people through these “festive” seasons becomes essential.
At Sprucewoods we try to make all holidays special for the residents and staff. Some don’t have family or friends nearby, or they may have estranged relationships and feel all alone. These are the reasons that we put so much effort in celebrating all the special days not only at Christmas, but throughout the year.
Another Christmas tradition at Sprucewoods includes residents creating “Santa Wish Lists” so staff can pick out their presents with care. We make sure that everyone gets to pick something special they would like to have for meals and snacks. Residents give us ideas for what they would like to make their friends/family. We remove the hurdle of potential feelings of financial insufficiency by supplying the crafts and wrapping paper, so they can give presents to their loved ones. Most importantly, we provide them with support systems in case they are having a difficult holiday season.
So, with the festivity and cheer of the season, there is also support and stability extended. If you find yourself struggling this holiday season, there are many organizations that you can reach out to:
National Helpline for free 24/7 mental or substance use disorders: 800-662-4357
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
24-hour Mobile Crisis Hotline: 800-422-0045
It is vital to know that you are not alone this holiday season. Sprucewoods would like to wish you a happy and healthy holiday season and New Year.