Movies and music would have us believe the holiday season is “the most wonderful time of the year.” And while that’s true for many folks, this time of year is lonely and opens up old wounds for others. Also, the days are much shorter, increasing the risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
At Labyrinth Psychiatry Group in Cranford, New Jersey, psychiatrists Salvatore Savatta, MD, Karen Omilian, DO, Orrin Marin, MD, and our team of licensed nurses and counselors specialize in treating mental health conditions, including seasonal depression.
This blog explains why depression peaks during the holidays and provides simple strategies to help you cope.
The holidays are filled with wonder and joy but they’re also stressful. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that more than half of American adults (63%) describe the holiday season as overwhelming and exhausting.
Unfortunately, the more stressed we are, the more likely we are to experience depression. Life is challenging as it is, but the holiday season presents additional stressors, including:
If you live far away from friends and family, you might even feel isolated and alone.
With so much weighing on your mind, it’s no wonder depression peaks during the holidays. The good news is you don’t have to suffer.
Several strategies can ease the holiday blues and help you navigate the coming months and weeks. Here are our top recommendations:
Holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Hanukkah often revolve around family gatherings. It’s fun catching up with relatives, but it can also be mentally and emotionally taxing. That’s especially true if you have opposing religious or political views.
While it's easy to get caught up in disagreements, make time to step back and practice self-care. Sleep at least eight hours each night, drink plenty of water throughout the day, and eat balanced, nutritious meals whenever possible.
These simple steps support your energy levels and make it easier to maintain a positive attitude during this stressful time of year.
The cost of the holidays adds up quickly. Since the season is all about giving, it’s easy to fall into the consumerist trap. If you aren’t careful you can rack up debt and cause your personal finances to implode.
Establish a realistic budget instead of comparing yourself to others and spending beyond your means. Before shopping begins, assess your current financial situation. Then set spending limits and take advantage of discounts and coupons.
If you can’t buy gifts, that’s okay! Spending quality time with loved ones is a gift in and of itself.
People drink more alcohol during the holidays to celebrate and relax. Marijuana use is becoming more prominent as well since it’s now legal in 24 states.
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a cocktail or eating a pot brownie, but alcohol and marijuana are mind-altering substances that can affect your mood, thoughts, and behavior.
If you already have a mental health condition like depression or anxiety, consider refraining altogether. Drinking a cup of non-alcoholic apple cider or eating a marijuana-free treat is a better bet.
Applying these strategies to your own life can reduce your risk of holiday depression and stress, but they won’t necessarily cure the problem entirely.
Don’t wait to seek professional help if you feel down this time of year. There’s nothing to be ashamed of and working with a qualified mental health professional can help you talk through your feelings and develop coping mechanisms.
If you’re interested in therapy services or want to try psychotherapy, contact our team at Labyrinth Psychiatry Group today. Schedule an appointment online or over the phone.
