This time of calendar is known as the most wonderful time of the year, but for some people, it is everything but. For millions of Americans, the holiday season is a depressing time of the year. Known as “holiday blahs”, “holiday depression”, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (or winter depression), the holidays are met with an overwhelming sense of despair followed by sadness, anger, and loneliness. Experts say this is sometimes caused by the lack of sun that occurs when the days are shortened during the winter months, which can affect moods.
During this time of the year, there is an influx of commercials and ads, sales displays in malls and stores, and conversation revolving around Christmas, Thanksgiving, buying gifts, etc. This can make some people feel ignored and unable to cope. Many people experience winter blues but Seasonal Affective Disorder is a serious affliction that may need doctor’s care.
I personally have never dealt with depression, during the holidays or otherwise, but I have two family members who have suffered from it in the past. The symptoms are easy to recognize and include crying spells, sleeping more than usual, and closing yourself off from friends and family.
One of the best ways to overcome these feelings is to surround yourself around those who love you and those who will listen. Share your thoughts and feelings and express how you feel. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, you can always start a blog or write in a journal as a release.
If you have lingering depressed feelings for longer than a few days, you may need to seek professional help.
Do you suffer from the holiday blahs? How have you dealt with it?
Well, as you may know I was diagnosed with depression over 10 years ago now. I can’t say I notice a difference from season to season per say but I do know I love being in the sun so that must be a sign huh? (Virgin Islander to the bone). I chose to not take meds a long time ago, so I manage my depression with being proactive in how I eat, how much I sleep, and knowing my own personal triggers, then avoiding them. Considering it a true blessing you’ve never dealt with this. It’s so counter to my personality and I truly wish it would just go away, but alas, not so, so I manage 🙂
Gives you a big hug and let’s you borrow my Xoom. I know that won’t make it go away, but it will make you feel better. If only for a little while! 🙂
Depression stinks for sure! I deal with it myself, but not the seasonal type. The holidays are actually one of my favorite times of the year!
Holidays are a time of happiness; for some reason, people can still be sad. They may have their personal reasons for it; so our role is to shower them with love that can help them make it though the season. Seasonal Affective Disorder can’t just be shortened to SAD just for nothing (no pun intended).