Q. What are some causes of the holiday blues?
A. Many factors can cause the holiday blues: stress, fatigue, unrealistic expectations, over-commercialization, financial constraints, and the inability to be with one’s family and friends to name a few. The demands of shopping, parties, family reunions and houseguests also contribute to feelings of tension. Often individuals cope by over eating or drinking, which only exacerbates these feelings. Even more people experience post-holiday let down after January 1st. This can result from disappointments during the preceding months compounded by excess fatigue and stress.
Q. What are some ways to manage these holiday stresses?
A. One of the biggest things we can all do is to have realistic expectations to match our current reality. For instance, if you don’t get along with a family member during the year, you’re probably not going to get along with that person during the holidays. Some other ways to manage are:
· Try to set realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time.
· Do not set yourself up by comparing today with the “good ol’ days.”
· Do something for someone else. Volunteer at your church or a local organization.
· Enjoy activities that are free. For example, drive through communities and look at the holiday decorations. Go window-shopping. Or better yet, try something new!
· Spend time with supportive and caring people. Reach out and make new friends or contact someone you haven’t heard from in a long time.
· Save time for yourself! Recharge your batteries.
Q. What if it is more than the holiday blues? Are there ways to know if this is situational depression or something more?
A. That is a great question. We all have bad days – that is just life. But, if a person has a period of more than two weeks where she/he has a depressed mood, crying spells, sleep problems, feelings of guilt and thoughts of death or suicide, it is probably a major depression, and medical care should be sought. Also, one of the big things that happens at the holidays is that families who are coming in from out of town spot changes. For example, your parent is not taking care of himself or his home as he used to. This is a good time to turn to a professional for help and guidance whether it be contacting a physician, psychologist or locating a local agency to assist your loved one in the home. Talk to your family members to learn more about their day-to-day living activities including diet, exercise, social life and daily medications taken. This will help you and the professional determine a plan of care for your loved one.
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