One of Ireland's well-known social commentators has urged people to
look out for people who are suffering from depression this Christmas.
Fr Joe Young a former parish priest in Southill, Limerick City and
who has often spoken of the his own experiences of depression said this
week that Christmas, “is the most dangerous time of year for those
suffering from depression.”
He said, “As we move into Advent, it really is the time of year when
we should look out for people. It is traditionally the time of year
when people look back and reflect on their lives and think about the
things they might not dwell on at other times of the year. But this
year we also have extremely cold weather, which means people are more
housebound and many can be sitting at home alone. And of course we have
the economic problems and a very tough budget introduced this week.”
Fr Young, who is Chaplin to the Brothers of Charity in Limerick City
also added, “there are lots of men in Limerick now, and I hear this from
their families, who are sitting quietly on the couch at home and not
talking to their families or their children.”
Family members might think 'he has had a busy day at work and we'll
leave him alone'. What he is thinking about in fact is whether he will
have a job next week, will he be able to pay the mortgage or the bills
next month.”
Fr Young said that more can be done for such people by being a good
listener, over a cup of tea, more than all the therapy in the world.
“The most important thing friends and loved ones can do is to be a
good listener. To be a good listener is the best present you can give
this Christmas.”
SIC: CIN/IE