Christmas is often associated with happiness but beyond the glittering lights are souls that are thoroughly unhappy. I know what it’s like to be depressed during this time of year and I know how painful it is to have to deal with this kind of shit while everyone’s grinning from from ear to ear. I know how you feel, believe me.

I get depressed easily. Anything can trigger it and it’s bad once it’s there. For years, I searched for a solution. I searched for a distraction and went to the doctor only to be given a drug cocktail. So yes, I know how you feel.

You may be alone right now but you are not the only one who feels this way. There are many of us out there, somewhere. But what does it matter? They can’t help you, I can’t help you. But something can help you.

Over a year ago, I found that it doesn’t have to be this way. I don’t have to be depressed. I don’t have to sad. I found that I could stop it and no I am not talking about sheer will. That kind of thing doesn’t work when you’re talking about depression.

So what did I find? I found wine. Don’t get me wrong. I’m no alcoholic. If I started becoming a drunkard, I am sure my mother will end me. The keyword is wine. WINE, WINE, AND MORE WINE.

Is this backed by science or am I dispensing bad advice?

A Glass Of Wine A Day

We’ve heard how wine is beneficial for those with heart disease and that red wine, when drank in moderation, is actually good for overall health. But now, researchers from Spain are saying that drinking this beautiful alcoholic beverage can also decrease the risk of depression. The study was published in BMC Medicine, a medical journal. Check it out if you must but I will take that against you for not trusting me on this one. I kid.

And you gotta love the Spanish! I am Spanish by the way. Yes, you may kiss me now.

The researchers analysed 2, 683 men and 2, 822 women, according to Medical News Today and this was done for seven years. Man, that is a long time.

The participants were between 55 and 80 years old. These men and women have no history of any alcohol-related problems and no history of depression.

The participants had to assess their alcohol intake annually while the researchers analysed their mental health and lifestyle. That was a lot of work but now that the study is done, we can all sit back and sip up to seven glasses of wine.

Two To Seven Glasses Of Wine Per Week

The study found that participants who drank moderate amounts of alcohol were less likely to get depressed. When I read this, I said, “YES!!! I was right all along.” Now I will order a few bottles online. 

The good news is, the results remained even if you account for the lifestyle of each participant.

Don’t Go Overboard: Seven Is The Magic Number

Seven small glasses of wine is the magic number because once you exceed the seven glasses per week rule, that could lead to depression. And you don’t want that unless you want to torture yourself.

Now please do me a favour and drink wine.