Behavioral Health Articles
Holiday Blues
by Marie Walsh
The December holidays are supposed to be a time filled with joy, good cheer, and optimistic hopes. Yet, it is common for many of us to feel sad or lonely during the holiday season. This condition, called the holiday blues or depression, can occur at any holiday or vacation time, but most commonly happens during the December holidays when it seems that just about everyone is celebrating in some way. In the midst of parties, shopping, and decorations, many of us feel stressed, tired and anything but joyful.
So what causes the holiday blues? Most evidence indicates that unrealistic expectations, over-commercialization and the inability to spend as much time with one's family or friends as one would like, all contribute to the stress associated with holiday blues. However, according to a recent poll by the American Psychological Association, money issues top of the list for causing holiday stress. The Survey found that 61% of Americans listed lack of money as the top cause of holiday stress followed by the pressures of gift giving, lack of time, and credit card debt. On top of that, many people report eating more rich food and drinking more alcohol during the holiday season. Both of these behaviors can affect mood and ability to cope and, in fact, alcohol is a known depressant.
While they may be intense and unsettling, holiday blues are different from clinical depression in that they are usually short-lived, lasting for a few days to a few weeks prior to or just after the holiday. The good news is holiday blues usually subside after the holiday season is over and daily routines are resumed.
There is a long list of recommended Do's and Don'ts for managing the holiday blues. One of the most important things to remember is feeling down is a normal response to a stress-filled time of year, and you don't have to suffer unnecessarily. Find someone to talk with who can help you through this difficult time -- a family member, friend, member of the clergy, physician, or professional counselor.
Here are some more ideas that that help people manage the holiday blues:
1) Set realistic goals. Keep your expectations manageable by not trying to make this holiday "the best ever." Set realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Plan your holiday budget and stick to it.
2) Let go of the past. Don't be disappointed if your holidays are not like they used to be. Life brings change. Each holiday season is different and can be enjoyed in its own way.
3) Help someone. Do something for someone else. It's an old remedy but it helps. Try volunteering your time to help those in need.
4) Don’t overdo it. Maintain moderation with food and alcohol and get plenty of rest. You'll feel better both physically and mentally. Exercise whenever you can.
5) Avoid over-scheduling. Think in advance about how much you can do and how many parties you can handle. It is better to have one or two great chances to be together than an exhaustive marathon of coming and going.
6) Spend time with people who care. Spend time with people who are supportive and care about you. Contact someone with whom you have lost touch.
7) Find time for yourself. Think, appreciate and enjoy. The holidays take up so much time that you've probably neglected yourself. Take a walk or play in the snow. Go shopping for yourself if you want, but if you can’t face the malls anymore, then just draw a hot bath and relax with a good book. If you are feeling burnt, then don't just keep going. Take some time out and kiss those post-holiday blues goodbye!
Marie Walsh is the Executive Director of Catholic Charities of Cortland County.