She Strengthens

The Holiday Season: A Time of Joy or Despair?

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are filled with excitement and anticipation. However, for others, this time of year can be a source of anxiety, stress, and depression. The pressure to buy gifts, host parties, and spend time with loved ones can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and despair.

Why Do the Holidays Trigger Depression?

Despite the supposed joy and merriment of the holiday season, many people experience a spike in depression and anxiety. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 64% of people living with a mental illness report that their symptoms worsen during the holidays. The pressure to prove oneself, spend excessive amounts of money, and pretend to be happy can be crushing.

Identifying the Causes of Holiday Depression

To overcome holiday depression, it’s essential to identify the underlying causes. Is it the pressure to buy gifts, the stress of hosting parties, or the feeling of loneliness? Whatever the reason, acknowledging and accepting these emotions is the first step towards healing.

Countering the Causes of Holiday Depression

Here are seven common reasons why holiday depression hits hard and what you can do about them:

1. Forcing Happiness: Allow yourself to feel negative emotions and process them. Find a positive activity that brings you joy, such as cooking, decorating, or spending time with loved ones.

2. Burnout: Be intentional with your energy and prioritize self-care. Think about who you want to spend time with and what activities will revive you.

3. Social Isolation: Reach out to friends and loved ones, and schedule virtual meetings in advance. Join online support groups or participate in community activities to combat loneliness.

4. Unmet Expectations: Remember that you did the best you could in the situation you were given. Focus on your accomplishments and celebrate your successes.

5. Commercialization and Shopping Fatigue: Learn to say no to excessive spending and focus on expressing care through non-material means. Try writing letters or creating something meaningful.

6. Financial Stress: Make a budget and implement a spending cap with loved ones. Consider skipping gifts altogether or making something thoughtful.

7. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Focus on your mental health and speak with trusted friends or a mental health hotline. Explain your mental stress and seek professional help if needed.

When to Take Holiday Depression Seriously

While any mental upset should not be dismissed or minimized, the treatment required varies based on the severity. Determine if what you’re feeling is holiday depression or something else. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as sadness, hopelessness, guilt, irritability, changes in sleep or appetite, or a decrease in concentration, seek professional help.

Speaking with mental health professionals can help you understand what you’re experiencing and provide an accurate diagnosis. They’ll work with you to develop coping mechanisms, such as therapy, exercise, or medication, to manage depression around the holidays.

Remember, making change is a feat you can do, one step at a time. By acknowledging and addressing the underlying causes of holiday depression, you can begin to heal and find joy in the season.