Although it’s the season to be jolly, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed amidst the holiday rush. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome this season’s blues.
The holiday blues might not be a recognised psychiatric condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, but there are a few reasons why people may experience feelings of depression during this time, explains mental health and wellness publication Verywell Mind. The possible causes may include:
- A lack of sleep.
- Excess eating and alcohol use.
- Financial stress.
- Isolation and loneliness.
- Unrealistic expectations.
End-of-year holidays such as Christmas and New Year can also present challenging demands such as family obligations or holiday parties, says the health and wellness-focused publication Healthline.
Besides contacting your doctor or a mental health professional, consider the following actions you can do on your own to beat the blues:
Exercise regularly
According to Verywell Mind, research shows that regular physical exercise can play a crucial role in the prevention and reduction of depression symptoms.
Practice moderate drinking
During the holidays, booze is often the number one drink of choice, and drinking too much of it can intensify the negative emotions that you might have. If you choose to drink, limit your intake to one or two alcoholic beverages and avoid using alcohol as a way to deal with or avoid difficult emotions, states Verywell Mind.
Avoid overeating
Healthline suggests before going to a social event, fill up on veggies. “Holiday outings can often lead to overeating, which can affect your mood and overall well-being.”
Get support when mourning a loved one
The holiday season can be especially tough if you have lost a loved one. Instead of isolating yourself and grieving, surround yourself with family and friends, says Healthline. Their support can be quite beneficial.
Learn to say ‘no’
Verywell Mind states the holidays can often mean more people asking for help and making demands on your time and resources. Overscheduling and not making time for yourself can lead to emotional breakdowns, adds Healthline.
Also see: How to cope with toxic family members during the holidays
