Be mindful of the darker side of holidays

Taos is one of the best places anywhere to spend the holiday season. Boutique retailers, art galleries, restaurants and so many others put in time and effort to make Taos sparkle this time of year. All you have to do is stroll in and around the Plaza on any given night to see the holiday magic.

But there is some bah-humbug sentiment out there, too. It’s more a recognition that many Taos County residents do not necessarily look forward to the holiday season. In fact, it’s often faced with a sense of dread.

As we embark on Christmas weekend, followed by New Year’s weekend, it’s worthwhile to remember that this time of year also brings with it a lineup of challenges.

In general, the month of December sees a higher-than-average suicide rate. Certain crimes increase as well (domestic violence and theft). Suicide and crime have devastated many individuals and families in Taos County already this year. Therapists, clinicians, counselors, law enforcement and others say there are several factors that contribute to the December phenomenon — not all the factors have to do with the holidays, but many do. One big factor: those without a solid family support system. They often feel isolated and depressed during the holidays.

Mass media images and representations can contribute to the sense that things aren’t normal — that you’re not living up to a certain level of attainment. For example, commercials in which daughters and sons get new cars wrapped in a big bow can create that feeling. And if you’re not buying diamonds for your significant other or jewelry for your mother, you are less than adequate. Financial strains land front and center as part of the darker side of the holiday season. Payday loan operations offer the enticement of quick cash so you can buy that special gift (with extraordinarily high interest rates and penalties). But the guilt of not buying that certain someone a gift often outweighs the potential financial trouble that can follow for months or years to come.

It’s not only a tough season for those who don’t exist in a “chestnuts roasting on an open fire”-style family or friend situation. Some of our compadres simply don’t have family or friends to fall back on in times of need — financially, emotionally or otherwise. Some don’t have jobs at all or are severely underemployed. Some struggle to stay warm and eat.

Resources are scarce in Taos County, but available. Taoseños know this and step up and help every year. Taos Feeds Taos has been in high gear since before Thanksgiving and continues to assemble and distribute boxes of food to those who need it. Ted Wiard and the staff at Golden Willow Retreat are there to help. Tri-County Community Services does what it can on a tight budget. Our law enforcement officers often step in and help with situations that are spurred on by the darker side of the holidays. Taos has many churches offering support.

But because there is a darker side doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy. You should enjoy time with family and friends, buy gifts locally, attend holiday performances and go to holiday dinners. At the same time, keep an eye out for those who need food and medical care — or maybe just need a smile, reassuring hug and quick conversation. Volunteer with organizations like Taos Feeds Taos. Donate to local nonprofits that help those in need.

If you’re a person who feels the effect of the darker side of the holidays, reach out for help.

Happy holidays from all of us at The Taos News.