All This Love but Why Do I Still Feel Low

All This Love but Why Do I Still Feel Low,

The holidays bring loads of joy to many people. The excitement of holiday parties and spending time with loved ones you may rarely get to see puts a smile in many hearts. However, there is a darker side to the holidays. Financial problems, family problems, relationship troubles, pressure to find the perfect gift, and the list is endless. Being in a poly relationship brings great joy to your life but can also expose you to the risk of negative situations that could turn your holiday joy into a seasonal depression.

Family members sometimes struggle accepting polygamous or polyamorous relatives and they may not realize the severe effect they have on them. Being a sister wife or being involved with multiple partners will always be outside of social norms for many people and depression from feeling like an outcast by those people is an inevitable struggle. Finding family and friends that support you as well as finding others with your poly life in common is key to overcoming the shadow some others would like to cast over you. Find groups online to form a community and turn to your partner and or partners when times feel tough. Don’t avoid these conversations in an effort to keep everyone happy. It doesn’t work in the long run.

Depression over finances is a major and growing issue for the majority of Americans. The suicide rate has been increasing dramatically and shows no sign of slowing down. Much of this is due to financial burdens, lack of resources, and low wages. The holidays can magnify financial woes and send a person over the tipping point. poly families often enjoy the benefit of multiple incomes in one household but this is too often not true or leaves one feeling they need to keep up or do more. Keeping an open dialogue about money is absolutely vital in maintaining a healthy relationship and in ensuring one of your partners is not struggling with an unknown depression over money. If money is tight there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holidays without breaking the bank.

Skip gifts altogether or choose just one great gift the whole house can enjoy. Plan an amazing holiday celebration at home instead of traveling. Draw names so each person in the household needs only to buy one gift for one other partner. If you have kids you can have everyone only buy gifts for the kids. There are few greater joys than watching the excitement when children open gifts. Spend the holidays with your poly family helping others by volunteering to feed the homeless. Helping people in need is an eye opening experience that will help you focus on the positive things in your life.

Depression can be tough to overcome. It can derive from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), a chemical imbalance, chronic pain, unresolved relationship issues, a loss, or many things. If you are experiencing depression that just won’t subside do not be afraid to reach out for help. If you cannot talk to your partners, friends, or family about it there are resources that allow you to remain anonymous. Phone numbers and resources can be found in this link. No matter how tough it seems, you are loved, and you can find happiness again.

Sister Wives is not just a Poly Dating Site, they are also a poly support network. Is your Poly Family depending on your situation? You are all together for a reason. Don’t forget the love you all share. Sometimes you have to force yourself to be positive and put on a happy face to push through tough times. A healthy plural relationship will see to it that each member of the poly family is lifting each other up when needed. Be mindful of those around you this holiday season to ensure you are encouraging peace and joy.