Experiencing depression during the holidays? Depression medications and other alternative treatments can help make this time easier for you. The holiday season is typically associated with joy and celebration. For some, though, it can be a difficult time. If you are experiencing depression during the holidays, it is important to know you are not alone. Seasonal depression is actually fairly common. Understanding the factors that can cause depression symptoms can be helpful. With this knowledge, you can more effectively manage your mental health and seek appropriate treatment.
Factors that can cause depression during the holidays
- Increased stress — During the holidays, many people experience a surge of stress. This can contribute to the development of depression. Plenty of things might be competing for your attention during this time, from gift shopping to making travel arrangements. Keeping track of all the moving parts involved in holiday plans can be stressful. There is also the pressure of wanting to create a perfect holiday experience for yourself and others. If the reality does not meet your expectations, you may feel sad and deflated. As stress makes your emotional state more raw, it can play a big role in developing depression.
- Renewed grief — For those who have lost loved ones, the holiday season can be a painful reminder of their absence. The loss does not need to be recent. The grieving process is not the same for everyone. When the holidays arrive, they can reopen emotional wounds and put you in a more vulnerable mental state. The strong feelings typically associated with the holidays can make coping with grief and loss exceptionally challenging. If you are experiencing depression during the holidays, grief could be a driving factor.
- Less daylight — Winter comes with shorter days and longer nights. When the sun is out, the cold weather can make it uncomfortable to stay outside for extended periods. This means people tend to spend less time in the daylight during the holidays. Depression associated with the seasonal change in daylight is called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. Seasonal affective disorder is not separate from depression. Rather, it is a specific kind of depressive mental health condition. Because SAD affects the body in the same ways as other forms of depression, it can also be addressed with the same treatments.
- Financial strain — The holidays can be expensive. Between travel, decorations, gifts and other assorted expenses, you may strain your financial limits. Money is probably not what you want to think about while trying to enjoy the festivities. Unfortunately, paying close attention to your funds may sometimes be necessary. Trying to stretch your finances during the holidays can cause stress and anxiety. These can in turn lead to depression.
Ways to manage depression during the holidays
- TMS — TMS is short for transcranial magnetic stimulation. As a non-medication option for treatment-resistant depression, TMS can be an attractive option for people who want results without major side effects. TMS works by sending magnetic pulses into specific regions of the brain. These pulses are meant to stimulate activity that can help break negative patterns. With different forms of TMS therapy available, you can make sure you receive treatment tailored to your condition and needs. TMS is known for its rapid and effective results. If you want to experience relief as soon as possible, TMS can be a good option. These treatments can help you enjoy the holidays without the symptoms of depression keeping you down.
- CBT — Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a popular approach to depression treatment. CBT can be a helpful way to practice coping practices as you head into the holidays. With the right CBT management techniques and support for your depression symptoms, you can stay resilient and positive during the holidays. As a well-established form of talk therapy, CBT involves a range of proven techniques. A key part of CBT is identifying negative thought patterns. Once these are identified, you can work with your therapist to develop effective coping strategies. CBT can help with symptom management as well as preventing further negative development.
Active Path Mental Health can help treat your depression during the holidays
Depression during the holidays is an unfortunate reality for many individuals. The combination of unique challenges throughout this time can be overwhelming. At Active Path Mental Health, we can help ease your burden. Our team works to offer practical tools and strategies tailored to each patient’s situation. With our help, you can navigate the challenges of the season and improve your overall mental health.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.
