Depression during holidays is not something new. Sure, people say holidays are when you’re supposed to be happy, but you can hear stories about people feeling blue whenever holidays are just around the corner every year. Why do people feeling depressed nearing or during holidays? How should they cope with it?
Holiday depression causes
One of the most prominent causes of holiday depression in the modern world is financial problems. Holidays have been transformed into times to splurge on gifts, new clothes, and anything else to show that we’re doing well.
The next reason is social isolation. The lack of social interaction during normal days is more apparent around holiday time. When you have no one to share the happy day with, you just can’t help feeling lonely.
Ironically, for many people, the trigger for holiday blues is actually the social interaction itself. People dread the thought of meeting with extended families and being bombarded with personal questions. “Why are you with your stupid job?”, “When are you getting married?”, “How are you still in a relationship with that awful man?” Just thinking about those type of questions is enough to give you sleepless nights.
How to deal with depression near the holidays
The followings are five tips to avoid holiday depression triggers and beat the holiday blues.
#1. Focus on the good things
Put your energy on the good things in your life no matter how small they may look. A cat on the street let you pat its head this morning? That’s a wonderful experience. Run through two consecutive green lights? That’s amazing.
#2. Don’t bother being perfect
Too many people fall into depression because they sweat the small stuff too much. Even in “normal” days, trying to be perfect all the time can overwhelm any sane person.
Take a deep breath and let it go. As long as the big picture is alright, then lie down and take your well-deserved break.
#3. Sleep
Do remember that you’re not a Navy SEAL who can stay awake for days and still function properly. Missing sleep to prepare for holidays won’t bode well to your physical and mental health.
Try to get a good night’s rest and take power naps whenever you feel tired during the day. Listen to relaxing ambient sounds when you find it hard to empty your head and doze off.
#4. It’s alright to be sad
Feeling sad when you’re missing a loved one is A-OK. Let yourself shed a few tears and embrace the precious memories you’ve had with that person. Just remember not to dwell in your sadness and do your best to focus on the positives you have now.
#5. Reach out
There are over seven billion people in this world. When you’re feeling overwhelmed and down all the time, please reach out for help. If you think you need to see a doctor, go sooner than later.
