Holiday Depression: Is it real? How can it be treated?
Published:
Dec 19, 2024
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09:18 p.m.
ET
The holidays can be joyous. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for everyone, though. You might’ve heard of the term “holiday blues.” This refers to sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness during the holidays.
It’s not just a feeling. It’s a real condition called holiday depression. The increased anxiety and stress of the holiday season can cause this condition.
In some individuals, it can lead to addiction and relapse. Notice the signs before it’s too late. This guide offers tips and treatment options for those struggling with holiday depression.
Depression rates during holiday season
The holiday season can bring joy and togetherness. However, that’s not always the case for everyone. More individuals struggle with depression during the holiday season. The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) reported that 64% of individuals struggle with poor mental health.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is also on the rise during this time of the year. The prolonged darkness can make some people feel more depressed than usual. Some individuals might get the holiday blues, which can trickle into the winter blues. For others, it can develop into clinical depression.
Guidance for navigating holiday depression
It can be hard to motivate yourself during the holiday season when life is busier than it should be. But you can take the appropriate steps to navigate your holiday depression. First, you should cultivate awareness of your feelings. Keep track of your thoughts and emotions in a journal or notebook.
Also, set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Doing so can prevent conflict, disappointment, and mental health crises from happening. Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Enjoy “me” time by reading a good book or ice skating. Sometimes, getting enough rest is good enough.
Set healthy boundaries with yourself and others. Avoid parties and situations that could trigger cause relapse. Bring a sober friend for accountability and support. Or, you can plan your own get-together. Invite a few friends over for tea or a potluck dinner.
You can also create new traditions for yourself. It could be as simple as dancing around your room, listening to your favorite music, or looking at Christmas lights.
If necessary, seek support from loved ones. Contact a sober companion or seek professional help. Take the time to work on your mental health as you would any other time of the year.
At-home counseling for depression available during holidays
Thankfully, you can get help. You don’t have to be alone, even during the holidays. Birches Health offers counseling for individuals who struggle with depression and behavioral addictions.
Licensed clinicians are knowledgeable and experienced in the areas of clinical depression. During the session, you’ll uncover the root of your problem. Counseling is also available for couples and family members.
You’ll receive treatment at home. You won’t have to worry about sitting in traffic or running into someone you know at the doctor’s office, especially around this time of the year.
Therapy is imperative for controlling your mental health. In a safe and supportive environment, you’ll learn healthy coping mechanisms. Your mental health journey starts with a complimentary and confidential self-assessment.
To get started with Birches Health you can:
Or you can simply call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to get in touch with the Birches team now.
What can cause holiday depression?
Sadness is a unique experience. There are different reasons as to why people feel sad around this time of the year. This is because there are several underlying causes of depression. Some of the most common causes of holiday depression include the following, per WebMD:
Anxiety or stress
Consumerism, capitalism, materialism, or over-commercialization of the holidays
Chronic shopping or impulse spending
Fatigue or exhaustion
Financial struggles
Loneliness or social isolation
Pipe dreams or high expectations of the holiday season
Signs of depression over the holidays
It’s normal to feel sad during the holidays. It becomes a serious problem when it negatively impacts your life. The added stress and pressure can worsen anxiety and depression. Maybe you or someone you know is feeling blue.
Here are some of the most common signs of holiday depression you should look out for:
Isolated or withdrawn from friends and family. Avoids social events and holiday parties.
Acting erratically or impulsively. They could drink more or spend more money to regain good feelings.
Experiencing irritability or frustration. They might get into family conflict or act aggressively towards others.
Struggling with suicidal thoughts or ideation. They might talk about not wanting to leave the earth or having nothing to live for.
