While the winter holidays can be a source of great comfort and happiness, if you are on long term disability, it can feel like the most depressing and stressful time of the year.

According to a study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), “755 of overall respondents reported that the holidays contribute to feeling sad or dissatisfied and 68% financially strained.” In addition, “66% have experienced loneliness, 63% too much pressure, and 57% unrealistic expectations.” Finally, the study revealed that “55% found themselves remembering happier times in the past contrasting with the present, while 50% were unable to be with loved ones.” These feelings of depression and loneliness can be even worse if you are struggling with mental illness.

The holidays can also bring unique challenges if you’re receiving long term disability benefits. Even though the pressure to go to work and put on a brave face may not be there, you may have other stressful factors in your life.

If you receive long term disability benefits, you might feel cut off from your friends and family members. You may no longer be able to enjoy your regular, daily tasks or participate in the same social gatherings that you enjoyed before their illnesses or injuries changed your life.

Even simple things like attending religious services, decorating the house, shopping for presents, wrapping gifts, and cooking holiday meals might seem like insurmountable tasks when you’re suffering from a debilitating illness or injury. For one, you may just not be up for the physical demands of typical holiday activities. And, if you live alone, you might be afraid that you’re becoming a burden to your friends and loved ones by asking for help during the holiday season when everyone is so busy and stressed out already.

If you do live with your family, the holidays can add an enormous amount of pressure. You may simply not feel like celebrating when you’re in pain or sick, and there may be an added sense of shame that you aren’t up to taking part in what is supposed to be a joyous time of the year.

For those who have a friend or family member on long term disability benefits, keep in mind that they may be extra sensitive during this time of year. Try to set aside petty grievances and understand when they may not be as patient or outgoing as they were before they became injured or ill.

If you are on long term disability benefits, don’t be afraid to reach out to family and friends during the holidays for help. Acknowledging your feelings and sharing them with others can help reduce the feeling of isolation. Remember to be realistic about the holidays, as well. They don’t have to be picture-perfect. If your regular traditions are too difficult to achieve, plan new ways to celebrate. This will help you feel like you are in control of the situation, rather than at the mercy of your situation.

The holidays don’t have to be a time of great sadness. By being patient with yourself and accepting support from others, you may find that you can enjoy them more than ever.

Call Share Lawyers - We Can Help

If you are struggling with a disability and you have had a long term disability benefits claim denied by your insurance company, you deserve to be heard and you should fight for your rights. Call Share Lawyers and we will help you get the long term disability benefits you deserve. The disability lawyers at our disability law firm have the experience to help you get the benefits that you need. We offer a free consultation so that you can find out your options.

If you have had your claim for long-term disability denied, contact the long-term disability insurance lawyers at Share Lawyers. Our experienced team of long-term disability (LTD) lawyers can help. We have recently settled cases against Canada Life, Desjardins, Manulife, RBC Insurance, Sun Life, and many more. We offer free consultations and there are no fees unless we win your case. Find out if you have a disability case.

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