Christmas can be a difficult period for a number of reasons, and many people struggle with depression at this time of year. For some, the holiday period is generally stressful and overwhelming, and for others, Christmas can bring back difficult memories, or exacerbate current mental health conditions.
But if Christmas depression is so common, why is it that it never seems to be addressed? In this blog, our experts at The Awareness Centre are taking a deep dive into the causes of Christmas depression as well as some helpful tips for managing your symptoms. The key here, of course, is to remember that you’re never alone in how you feel, both at Christmas and throughout the year. Read on to learn more about Christmas depression, why the condition needs to be addressed and how we can help you cope.
Key Causes of Christmas Depression
Many people struggling with Christmas depression may wonder what is causing them to feel this way during what is marketed as the most magical time of the year. The fact is, Christmas depression can be caused and triggered by a number of things, from the loss of a loved one to anxieties around the expense of such an indulgent period. Whatever it is that you feel is causing your depression, there are ways to mitigate the effects of the symptoms on your daily life and still allow yourself to enjoy the holidays in a way that works for you.
Here are some of the common issues that can cause and trigger Christmas depression:
- Loneliness
- Finance anxieties
- The loss of a loved one
- Unrealistic expectations
- Overindulgence
- Social anxiety
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Thousands of people across the UK struggle with depression at Christmas, but even so, the condition and its symptoms can often be swept under the carpet or considered less of a priority due to the busy time of year. If you notice that a loved one might be struggling amidst all the festivities or you’re concerned for your own wellbeing, contact our team today for support.
How to Deal With Your Christmas Depression
Dealing with depression at any time of year is no easy feat, but at Christmas time especially we may feel obliged to try to rid ourselves of unhelpful, negative thoughts without communicating them to others. Ignoring our emotions, losing our routines and overindulging can all play a part in worsening our mental health, so it is vitally important that we take time out to reflect and practice self-care during this period.
Below are some small steps you can take to deal with your Christmas depression:
- Spend time outside: With the days being shorter and colder, it can be easy to fall into the habit of spending all your time indoors. However, the fresh air and sunlight, even on a bitter cold, cloudy day, can significantly improve your mood and health in general.
- Limit alcohol: Alcohol is more readily available than ever at Christmas, but that doesn’t mean you have to overindulge. As a depressant, alcohol can leave you feeling down and even more depressed after the initial buzz has worn off.
- Make a budget: Having a budget in place for your Christmas expenses, such as gifts, food and decorations might help you to feel more in control and less overwhelmed. Try to review your budget every once in a while to ensure you are sticking to it.
- Limit social media: Spending too much time on social media can have negative effects on your wellbeing, especially at Christmas. Being drawn into images of ‘perfect’ Christmases may leave you feeling envious or disappointed that your day doesn’t look the same. Remembering that social media is a highly-filtered, distorted adaptation of someone’s day is key, but it can be even more helpful to simply limit the time you spend online.
Seeking Support For Your Christmas Depression
Speaking to someone about your Christmas depression can help you feel less alone, and can also provide you with the tools you need to work towards a healthier mindset. Whether you seek initial support from a trusted friend or loved one, get in touch with mental health charities and helplines or choose to speak to a professional counsellor or therapist, there are plenty of options when it comes to seeking support.
Many people around the world struggle with Christmas depression, despite this time of year being marketed as the happiest and most wonderful. While you may feel isolated in your emotions and unsure why you are feeling this way, try to remember you are far from being the only one, and there are resources and trained professionals to help you get through the festive period and come out stronger in the new year.
If you’re struggling with Christmas depression, book an appointment with one of our specialists at The Awareness Centre today and talk through your concerns. We’ll support you in finding out how you can best manage your depression symptoms and work towards better wellbeing.
