Do you feel sad(der) than usual during the holiday season? Blame the season! The holiday season brings some uninvited guests: depression, stress and anxiety. Holiday depression is quite common. But not many are aware of this and end up blaming themselves for their miserable mood. If you are one of those dealing with extreme sadness or depression-like symptoms during the holiday season, the following insights might help you.
DEPRESSION AND THE HOLIDAYS
The time of celebrations turns into a series of symptoms like sadness, loneliness and anxiety for some. This feeling, especially during the months of November and December, is termed holiday season depression. It is real. It is common. But not necessarily normal.
Illustration: Geetanjali, DailyO
WHY ARE SOME PEOPLE DEPRESSED AMID FESTIVITIES?
Holiday season depression is largely due to a few common habits that can take a toll on your mental health unknowingly. Dr Shaunak Ajinkya, psychiatrist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital told DailyO, “There can be many reasons behind holiday season depression that affect your mind and body. Lack of sleep, spending too much, hectic schedules, unhealthy eating, too much drinking and unrealistic expectations are some of the reasons.”
“This type of depression has become more common during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many people have lost their loved ones. Then they end up missing them during the festivities. Also, due to restrictions, many are not able to meet their friends and family,” Dr Ajinkya added.
People with pre-existing mental health issues are more likely to experience depression during the holiday season.
Illustration: Geetanjali, DailyO
HOLIDAY BLUES VS DEPRESSION
Sadness is not depression. So, you should not confuse holiday blues with depression. “In depression, one may experience more symptoms along with sadness. Depression may affect your sleep cycle, appetite and energy levels. Lack of interest in doing daily chores is one of the major symptoms. These symptoms are quite worrisome,” Dr Ajinkya said.
WHEN TO SEE AN EXPERT
If you or someone around you experiences the above-mentioned symptoms along with sadness, then it is time to reach out to an expert.
Dr Ajinkya said, “Holiday blues can be managed with counselling. But constant sadness, unintentional changes in weight, constant fatigue, lack of interest in daily activities, poor sleep and other lifestyle changes can be signs of depression that require medical treatment. In this condition, the patient requires medicine.”
Illustration: Geetanjali, DailyO
HOW TO DEAL WITH HOLIDAY DEPRESSION
You can make a few simple changes to prevent holiday season depression:
These might sound a little boring to you, but we believe we don’t need to explain the need for a healthy mind, especially during the pandemic.