Ask The County Agent: ‘Why do I feel so down during the holidays?’
By OLIVIA HANDLEY, UGA Extension Coweta County, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent
QUESTION: If the holidays are supposed to be so fun and wonderful, why do I feel so down?
AGENT: The holiday season is thought to be one of the most wonderful times of the year, full of joy, cheer and bright wishes. Unfortunately, that is not always the case for everyone. The holidays can bring on a sense of stress and even depression in some people. This can be triggered by many factors and tends to be worse in those with preexisting mental conditions. Some refer to this condition as the “Holiday Blues”. These blues can even have an onset after the holidays are over and the seasonal activity dries up.
Firstly, it is important to figure out what are the stressors which bring on these feelings: increased stress and tiredness, unrealistic expectations, too much commercialization, overcrowded shopping areas, unpleasant holiday memories from the past, family conflicts, loneliness due to loss of a loved one or geographical distance to family and friends, and financial stressors such as a long gift list and a tight budget.
There are many ways to address these Holiday Blues once our triggers are identified.
• Take time for yourself. Take a walk, read a book or do some type of relaxing activity so you can come back refreshed.
• Get plenty of sleep. Being well-rested is important for physical and mental health.
• Eat and drink in moderation. It’s ok to indulge occasionally in holiday foods and drinks, but it is important not to use them as coping mechanisms to make yourself feel better.
• Set a budget and stick to it. With inflation and rising costs, many people cannot afford holiday gifts when putting food on the table is a struggle. Look to homemade gifts and gift exchanges as alternatives. Start new traditions like a cookie swap or gingerbread decorating party and covered dish get-togethers where everyone can bring something and spread the food costs over the entire group instead of a single host. Host a “regift” party where everyone brings something they already have to swap in a gift exchange.
• Get as much sunlight as possible. A seasonal decrease in sunlight after daylight savings time can lead to seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression during the winter months. It disappears as Spring approaches and can reoccur yearly.
• Volunteer. Helping others is a great way to shift focus from yourself to others. It is also a great way to make new friends and boost your spirits.
• Pace yourself and set boundaries. Try to limit holiday activities to what you can reasonably accomplish and do not over-book or over-commit yourself. It is ok to tell people “no” if you need to limit your commitments.
• Be grateful and thankful. Instead of focusing on what you do not have or wish you had, think of and list the things you do have and are thankful for.
• Reach out to get help if you are feeling overwhelmed. Talk to your doctor or medical professional if you feel like your symptoms are lasting a long time and not improving.
Those who get the blues after the holidays could plan something to look forward to after the holidays are over, like a vacation or get together with friends. It’s also a great time to start a new hobby or volunteer assignment.
The holidays are a great time to reflect on our lives and take stock of what is truly important to us. By being aware of our possible triggers and stressors, we can also increase our enjoyment of the holidays while reducing the negative impact on our life.
University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, Veteran, Disability Institution.
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