The holidays are often seen as a time of reflection and celebration with loved ones. However, amidst everyday stressors and increased commitments to friends and family, this festive season can also bring feelings of exhaustion or sadness, commonly referred to as the holiday blues or holiday depression.
Due to the demands and emotions of the holiday season, the holiday blues can be experienced by anyone, from people with prior mental health conditions to those who love the winter holidays and have never experienced them before.
The most common signs of holiday blues begin during the holiday season (November and December) and include:
Feelings of sadness or grief
Fatigue
Loneliness or isolation
Sense of loss
Overwhelm or anxiousness
Irritability
Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
Ways to manage the holiday blues:
One of the most important ways to manage holiday blues is to prioritize rest and self-care. Engaging in activities that both fulfill you and replenish your energy can better equip you to handle the emotions and stressors of daily life, as well as the holiday season.
Examples of supportive coping mechanisms include:
Spending time in nature, exercising, participating in hobbies, journaling and meditation.
Setting realistic expectations for yourself around your commitments, including holiday activities such as shopping, cooking, entertaining and attending holiday parties.
Spending time and talking with loving and supportive people in your life.
Starting a new family tradition, like making vision boards or playing board games.
Decluttering, cleaning and organizing your home environment.
These activities can foster a sense of control over your environment, boost your mood and encourage calmness and focus throughout the holidays.
When to seek help for the holiday blues
Remember, it’s normal to experience a range of emotions during the holidays. By acknowledging your feelings and prioritizing self-care, you can navigate the season with resilience.
If the holiday blues start to feel unmanageable or you need immediate support, you can call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — a free, confidential resource available 24/7.Personalized care is also available at Renown Behavioral Healthto support your mental health and overall well-being.
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