Q.I am sad all the time. Not "down" like some people say, just "sad". But I think I have reason to be, so I am not worried about it. Of course other people are (especially my children, but then they are part of what makes me sad - they live 3 and 400 miles away and I never see my grandchildren).

My husband is dead. I do volunteer work. Is "sad" the same as "depressed". Couldn't it just be that there are unhappy things around me and I am reacting appropriately?

A. All people experience sadness on a regular basis, it's part of the human process. Depression is an illness which can be diagnosed and successfully treated.

Upon reading the information you sent in, you might take a closer look at "being more responsible" in pursuing your personal happiness (or unhappiness).

In your communication you described the "unhappy things around you". You might consider looking more at the "happy things around you" as well.

Q. I am so overwhelmed with my life. A terminally sick spouse, I work part time, the holidays. I just want everything to be normal, and it's not. Any suggestions?

A. The unfortunate reality is that during this time of year, things are not normal. The "stressors" that that the holidays bring put most peoples "normal" activities/emotional responses on hold.

Given your particular situation of an ill spouse, things are clearly more stressful. Some individuals handle these situations with minimal difficulty. For those who do not, I suggest that reaching out, and talking to family/friends about your feelings can many times help "ease" emotional pain.

If your feelings of being "overwhelmed" continue (especially after the holidays), I suggest you sit down with a mental health specialist.

Q. I have the stereotypical case of holiday depression. The mere sight of the "jolly old elf " makes me cry. Sad movies, sad songs, too much to do - I usuallly just wait and it goes away. But maybe you can make it go away faster. Thanks

A. The "Holiday Blues" are all too common in our society today. Older adults are especially prone to this.

With all the holiday emphasis on children, seniors sometimes experience a greater sense of their own mortality, and grieve their "loss of childhood'. It is important for you to remember that you have the ability to avoid the "sad songs and movies" you talked about.

This may be the first step in your ability to take better care of yourself on an emotional level.