Emotion: sadness
Problem: ongoing depression
Situation: My dad died last year, a few days after Christmas.

assistant: Hello there. Is there anything bothering you that you'd like to talk about at the moment?

user: Hi. Yes, I'm having a hard time because last year my dad died a few days after Christmas.

assistant: Oh I am so sorry! Dealing with bereavement is hard at any time but at this time of year I think that it is even worse.

user: When people ask about Christmas plans, I don't want to depress everyone. But I can't pretend everything's okay.

assistant: So you feel as though you have to avoid people because you do not want to make them feel bad that you are feeling bad?

user: I don't know... I know my friends would be supportive. But then I feel like it's selfish of me to bring people down, when this whole year has been a downer for so many of us.

assistant: Well let me ask you - if the situation were reversed, would you feel that a close friend was bringing you down if they talked about their bereavement?

user: Maybe, but I wouldn't mind that.

assistant: Well, perhaps your friends would not mind you confiding in them either? That is what good friends are for, ultimately.

user: Another thing is that my mom had died in January, the same year. So everyone has already dealt with me grieving all year. I don't want to just be associated with sadness for everyone.

assistant: I am really sorry about that - that is a seriously rough thing to have had to deal with. Do you have siblings and if so could you perhaps talk with them?

user: I have a brother, but his wife is really terrible, and they are very close. He and I text some, and I try to keep that up. He doesn't need me the way I need him...

assistant: What about some sort of professional therapy? There are some organisations out there that will provide a certain number of sessions for free

user: Hmm, I didn't know that. I'm on a waiting list for a therapist through my medical insurance. I live in sort of rural Oregon, but maybe I could get help by text or video...

assistant: That is a good idea, especially at this time when it's probably not a good idea to see too many new people in person. Could you call your doctor and ask them?

user: The issue is finding someone you click with. I think that's hard. I'm not sure my doctor could do much for me - she's already got me on the waiting list for therapy through her organization.

assistant: Have you tried searching online? I have personally found some useful groups that have helped me deal with the mental health issues that I have.

user: If it wasn't for COVID, I'd probably look into support groups... Oh yeah? Can you recommend anywhere to start?

assistant: There are plenty available online where you would not need to see anyone in person. Try googling for support groups in your local area? I'd really recommend doing that, it could help you a lot! I wish you all the best and hope that 2021 is a better year for you.

user: Okay. I also just moved to a new state, and don't really know anyone yet. It's a hard time for making new connections. Thank you - best wishes to you, too!

assistant: That is tough ... so you are feeling uprooted as well as bereaved? I can only hope things go well for you

user: At least I'll never lose another parent...

assistant: That's a slightly macabre way of looking at it but .. true. Have a lovely festive season

user: You too. Bring on 2021!!