The holiday season can be merry and bright but for some people, recollections of lost loved ones, bad memories or feelings of isolation can make the holidays a time of dread.

Click here to listen to Karen Higgins

Dr. Karen Higgins , resident psychiatrist at Western Sierra Medical Center says it doesn’t have to be that way, and has some tips on recognizing when a person may be battling with depression.

Click here to listen to Karen Higgins

Dr. Higgins says there are ways to reduce stress and lift a person’s spirits and minimize negative feelings during the holidays.

Click here to listen to Karen Higgins

The holiday season is also a time of giving, and people can lift their spirits by volunteering at a local non profit or go to a local nursing home and just visit, read, or sing to individuals who are isolated.
Dr. Higgins encourages people to take a moment to find one thing to be thankful for, which will remind them that things could be worse.