This week's dilemma is from Andrew, who says he’s going to be on his own this Christmas. A lot of Andrew’s family lives interstate. He isn’t looking forward to the ‘season of cheer’ as it reinforces and makes him more aware of his ‘alone-ness.’

In addition, Andrew’s dreading the financial strain of the season as he’s already trying to repay a large debt. He knows his parents and neighbours don’t expect much from him, but he says he’ll feel stingy if he doesn’t get anything for them  - especially since he knows they’ll be getting him something.

Andrew’s also on anti-depressants. So, his dilemma is how do you get through the Christmas season when you’re not in the mood for it?

DISCUSSION POINTS:

• Have you ever been lonely at Christmas time? What do you do to get through not just the day, but the whole month that leads up to it?
• How do you get through the Christmas season while you’re battling depression? Is there a way of being ‘real’ at Christmas time and not resorting to cheesy jolly-ness?