What Is Holiday Depression?

Even if you consider yourself a happy person you may be susceptible to holiday depression. Do you find yourself obsessing over pictures on social media of people surrounded by smiling family members, wishing you had another life? Do the holidays make you feel isolated from the rest of the world? You are not alone (Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Symptoms – Who’s At Risk). Read on to learn about holiday depression.

Common Causes of Holiday Depression

Even people who do not experience clinical depression may experience seasonal blues. Many causes are responsible for this holiday depression.

It seems as if the holidays are always right around the corner. For many of us, family does not necessarily indicate a safe haven. Many people see visiting family members during the holidays to be a social obligation. It is certainly stressful and sad to be around people you might not like or even those who may have seriously hurt you in the past.

Current events are another common trigger for depression during the holidays. Political tensions are high at the moment, and election talk may be the forefront of discussion at Thanksgiving dinner (Who Asked The Schizophrenic Voices To Dinner?).

Let's not forget the stress and expectations that the holidays place on us. We feel the need to shop and be festive, sometimes to the point that we slack on self-care. We forget to do those things that keep us going all year long.

Symptoms of Holiday Depression

The symptoms of holiday depression are not much different from those of other types of depression. Loneliness and isolation are two key components, but you may also feel restless and angry. Physical symptoms include a change in appetite or sleeping patterns.

Coping Skills for Holiday Depression

So, how do you cope with the holidays? Watch this video to learn more about coping techniques associated with holiday depression. Then, let me know your methods. How do you cope with depression during the holidays?

Photo care of Negative Space