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The holidays can be a time of joy, happiness, and
celebration with family and friends. For many
people, however, the holiday season is a time of
sadness, gloom, and even depression.
These feelings
can be a result of many factors. Some common causes
of holiday blues are the loss of a family member or
friend, increased stress and pressure, unresolved
grief, family misunderstandings or conflict,
financial burden, and fatigue. Holiday blues can
affect both men and women of all ages.
People
respond to the stress of the holidays in different
ways. Reactions may include excessive drinking,
over-eating or not eating enough, difficulty
sleeping, and avoiding friends and family.
There are
ways to prevent or decrease the depression that many
people feel during and after the holiday season. It is
important to establish realistic goals and
expectations and remember that the holidays will not
prevent sadness or loneliness.
If someone
has experienced a death or romantic break-up, he or
she should not be obligated to feel festive. It may
help to talk openly and express feelings rather than
trying to ignore them.
Take
advantage of social support during this time with
family and friends. Another way to help reduce
stress is to know your spending limit and stick to
it. Set a detailed budget and do not put pressure on
yourself if you cannot buy expensive gifts.
If you have
gone over budget, take charge when the post-holiday
bills start coming in. If you cannot determine
a budget that will allow you to make timely
payments, seek help from a credit counselor.
These services are often free or at very low cost and
they can help you develop reasonable payment plans.
Whatever
happens, do not let depression or pressure form
bills immobilize you. Dealing with creditors
quickly can mean a much better financial and mental
outcome.
Planning
ahead or taking charge afterwards are also ways to decrease stress during this
hectic time. It may be helpful to develop a calendar
of specific events, although it is important to
remember to schedule some quiet time and relaxation.
You should
also plan for the time after the holidays.
Include activities that give you joy but require
little effort. Don't forget to add exercise
which bolsters the body's natural mood elevators.
Although the
first of the year is considered an ideal time to
resolve, don't let such resolutions depress or
stress you. Instead, use them as ideas, not
rules. Make them flexible to the realities of
life and, if you fail to follow through on one you
consider important, allow yourself the freedom to
begin again at another time without
self-recrimination.
The holiday blues are
usually a temporary and seasonal occurrence,
however, there may be an underlying problem that
needs to be addressed. Depression is a serious, yet
treatable condition. Remember that there is help
available in your community through crisis lines,
support groups, community mental health centers, and
private practitioners. |
