While many people associate the holiday season with family, friends and happiness, it can also bring the unwanted gift of the holidays blues.
As many gather with family and meet for different social events during this time of year, some people find themselves alone or in other less-than-ideal situations. Isolation, along with financial struggles, divorce, deaths and other changes in life circumstances are some examples of what can bring on anxiety and symptoms of holiday depression.
"Some people don't have things to look forward to," said Jeanie Pavlovich, Ph.D., behavioral health manager at Geisingerâ-âCommunity MedÂical Center. "They don't have finances to buy things; some people don't even have family or friends to be around."
Even without emotional baggage that holidays can bring, mental health experts say feeling down this time of year can be natural with fewer hours of natural sunlight, sometimes leading to a condition called seasonal affective disorder. However, mental health professionals offer suggestions on how to cope during this time of year.
People who feel down should make a point to spend time with friends and family, even reaching out to old friends, and try to stay busy with holiday tasks and chores.
For those struggling with memories of people no longer around, psychologists say it's healthy to acknowledge feelings of sadness.
Another way to beat the holiday blues includes participating in activities that bring happiness, such as going to a movie or volunteering with an organization, such as the Salvation Army.
"Doing things to help others is a big thing to help," Dr. Pavlovich said.
The Mayo Clinic also offers the following tips to avoid holiday stress and depression:
- Be realistic. The holidays don't have to be perfect or like previous years. As families change and grow, traditions often change as well.
- Learn to say no. Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can't participate in every project or activity.
- Don't abandon healthy habits. Don't let the holidays become a free for all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Continue to get plenty of sleep and physical activity.
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