Do You Have
Holiday Depression?

If you are wondering if Holiday Depression really exists, I am here to tell you - "you bet it does"! Of all the different types of dpression, the holiday type exists as well.

Holiday depression, sometimes referred to as "Christmas depression", is similar to other seasonal depressive disorders and is very common. Have you ever heard of the "winter blues"? Well, this is what people are referring to.

How can depression be prevalent for some people only during the holiday season? Because the hoidays come wrapped in old wounds, painful memories, downright sadness, regrets, personal reflection, grief, and let's not forget a huge amount of stress!! Many people miss their loved ones, reminisce about old times, re-live their regrets... yes, the holidays can make people depressed indeed!

Holiday Depression Symptoms

There are many different types of depressive disorders and the symptoms for this particular one includesSome symptoms of this type include the following:

Feelings of loneliness

Frequent headaches

Over-eating or drinking too much

Insomnia

Low levels of energy, feeling lethargic

Lack of interest in participating in festivities

Feelings of hopelessness, frustration and/or anxiety

The symptoms of holiday depression are not unlike other types of depression only they are usually somewhat atypical for the particular individual.... meaning the person usually doesn't struggle with depressed feelings. However, because of their emotions being stirred up, they find the holidays particularly challenging. So, the symptoms are familiar but the circumstances are unique.

If you think your feelings are more serious you can take a depression test to learn more. I also have a depression questionnaire and depression quiz you can consider as well.

Good thing to know, regardless, is that you can beat this thing. There are many ways to treat the various types of depressive disorders.

How Can You Overcome This?

So do you have seasonal depression? If so, there is hope! While there really isn't a formal depression treatment for this, here are some suggestions I have to help you get through it.

Recognize and acknowledge the feelings that are coming up for you. Don't feel you have to be happy just because it is the holidays. Allow your feelings to surface and feel them as they come up. It's okay to have a good cry!

Get support from friends and family.

Anticipate drama or conflict so that you are prepared to deal with it.

Define healthy boundaries by saying no when it is apporpriate. If at all possible, don't do things because you feel like you have to.

Consider natural remedies for depression. Most of them are readily available and you don't need a prescription.

Exercise - just a little bit of exercise daily can go a long way!

Manage your expectations - set a realistic schedule that minimizes unnecessary stress.

Consider volunteering to help others during this time

Avoid excessive drinking and/or the use of drugs. They will only emphasize your symptoms

Surround yourself with people that are supportive

Manage your thoughts - if bad/sad memories come about then don't harp on them. Instead acknowledge them then release them.

Broaden your horizons - try something new, different and exciting as a way to begin creating new, positive memories

Consider seeking professional help to address the issues that come up during this season so that you don't have to go through this each and every year

Learn about other types of depression or return to the home page here.

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