For many people, the holiday season is not a time of family and togetherness, but a time of loneliness and sadness and missing their loved one’s that have passed on. In a recent article by Choosing Therapy, it is stated that 280 million people in the world experience depression. That’s 5% of the adult population. As many as 14% of adults in the US experience “winter blues,” which may or may not coincide with the holidays. However, statistically depression increases during the winter and holiday seasons due to the rise in demands that can be stressful with family expectations and social events during that time.
While there is no way to totally getting rid of your winter and holiday blues, there are ways that may help you deal with the pressure of the feelings. Get plenty of rest and sleep, try not to overextend yourself and your finances for unnecessary gifts and events that may be beyond your control.
If you’re lonely, try to surround yourself with friends or family members or plan a vacation, cruise or a trip to someplace beautiful for the holidays.
While many people are missing their loved one’s deeply as the memories of past holidays flood their thoughts, try and stay busy. Catch up on your favorite shows, write or blog about your feelings - and don’t forget to talk about it! Sometimes sharing your thoughts with a trusted friend or family member can definitely help.
If you feel that you are struggling with depression, you don’t have to struggle alone. You can call The National Mental Health Hotline at 866-903-3787 to speak to a professional about depression and get help with mental health resources. You can also text GO to 741741 to reach a trained Crisis Counselor through Crisis Text Line, a global not-for-profit organization. Free, 24/7, and surely confidential. §
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