The Dark Part Of The Year

It’s THAT time of year again…

This is the time when almost everyone I know is utterly befuddled by my seasonal despondency.

Everyone is so excited about the loveliness of Fall. Many are just as excited by the impending holidays.

But me?

I get waylayed by Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — seasonal affective disorder (SAD) begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you’re like most people, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. These symptoms often resolve during the spring and summer months. Less often, causes depression in the spring or early summer and resolves during the fall or winter months. (Via The Mayo Clinic.)

Don’t get me wrong, I really like Autumn, too.

I can even get a little geeked over Winter, from time to time.

But it’s no secret that I’m a Spring/Summer kinda gal.

For me personally, it’s not just the longer days and warmer weather – although those are huge reasons! I also have quite a few widow-related memories during the darker part of the year.

One such memory is our wedding anniversary on October 17. It would have been seventeen years.

Then Bret’s would-be 53rd birthday falls on November 10. (Which is also my dad’s birthday – he will be 72!)

Of course in February – the 11th – toward the end of all the seasonal darkness, is the date of his passing.

I quite literally get through all of the little pesky, painful anniversaries and other dates just as Spring is about to circle back.

It’s truly the lighter half of the year for me.

That being said, SAD is NOT a preference.

Many folks will say to me, “Oh, I know what you mean. I hate Summer. I don’t like the heat.”

This isn’t me hating Fall or even Winter – it’s the effect that Fall and Winter have on me mentally and physiologically.

I WISH it was just a preference!

If you have a friend or loved one who gets depressed this time of year, please know that it’s not all in their heads. They aren’t choosing to be a drag. SAD is a legit affliction that can outright ruin this time of year.

Perhaps you feel the same way and have always wondered why.

It’s always good to discuss things like this with your healthcare provider, but know I see you.

We will get through it and yes, the sun will shine again.

Image via Dreamstime.com

********************************************

Do you know someone ready to make a meaningful impact this holiday season? Join us in embracing the true spirit of giving by getting involved in the Hope for Widows Foundation’s ‘Bring Hope Holiday Assistance Program’ virtual initiative, now in its third year. This program directly supports widows who may be struggling to provide gifts and essentials for their children during the holiday season. For many widows facing financial challenges, the choice between keeping the lights on, putting food on the table, and buying presents can be heart-wrenching. When you add the responsibilities of solo parenting, the weight of grief, and the toll it takes emotionally and physically, the burden becomes even greater.

To become a sponsor and access more information, and details visit the following link: https://bit.ly/3ZROBWo

For our widows/hope sisters in the community, please stay tuned as we’ll be sending out widow applications for sponsorship this holiday season very soon. Let’s come together and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

About Layla Beth Munk

Layla Beth Munk is a blogger & author who was thrust into this widowhood journey abruptly and tragically on February 11, 2018. Her husband of 12 years had ended his pain once and for all. She soon made the decision that she would not let his final decision define the rest of her life or their daughter’s life, so with her sense of humor at the helm, she started writing about her newfound station in life. Grief waves still get to her, and probably always will, but with the help of her fellow widows as well as friends and family, she has been able to realize her dream of becoming a published author! Layla is so grateful to Hope For Widows Foundation for providing this level of support to her, and so many others! Layla has two amazing children, one who is grown and one who is almost grown. She lives in eastern Oregon and has a wellness & beauty background. Layla enjoys writing poetry, watching anime, and homeschooling her daughter.

Her blog can be found at laylabethmunk.medium.com and her debut novella, 24 Hours in Vegas, is available on Amazon.