Coping With Depression Over the Holidays

The beginning of the holiday season can be a time of joy and celebration. However, if you’re dealing with depression, it can also bring feelings of sadness, isolation, and stress. 

Whether it’s due to social issues, family dynamics, or the pressure to feel festive when you’re not in the mood, it’s common for your depressive symptoms to worsen during this time of year. 

If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. Wendy Ann Reiss, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is here to offer tips to help you navigate the holiday season, manage your mental health, and find moments of peace and comfort. 

Set realistic expectations 

The holidays often come with a long list of expectations — from gift-giving and decorating to attending parties and family gatherings. Setting realistic expectations for yourself can relieve some of the pressure and help you manage your mental health. Here’s what we recommend: 

Acknowledge your feelings

It’s okay to feel sad or anxious. Try to accept your emotions without judgment and remind yourself that it’s okay not to feel “merry” all the time. 

Set boundaries

Limit your commitments to what you can handle. If attending multiple events feels overwhelming, prioritize the ones you truly want to attend and don’t be afraid to say no.

Focus on what you can control 

Rather than stressing about what you “should” be doing, concentrate on small things that bring you comfort, like watching a favorite movie, reading a book, or going for a walk. 

Prioritize self-care

With the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s easy to put self-care on the back burner. Prioritizing your well-being can help keep symptoms of depression in check — consider the following: 

Stick to a routine 

Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, balanced meals, and regular exercise. Routines can provide a sense of stability and comfort when other aspects of life feel overwhelming.

Practice mindfulness 

Engage in mindfulness activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. These practices can help calm your mind, reduce stress, and create a sense of calm. 

Limit alcohol and sugar

Holiday treats are often loaded with sugar, and celebrations frequently include alcohol. Both of these can exacerbate symptoms of depression, so it’s recommended to only enjoy them in moderation. 

Seek professional help when needed

If your depression symptoms feel overwhelming, our team of experts is always here to help. We won’t let you navigate the holiday season alone. Here’s how we can assist:

Medication management 

If you’re already on medication for depression, check with us to ensure you’re on the right dosage and it’s still working effectively. If you haven’t explored medication, we’ll help determine if it’s a good option for you. 

Therapy sessions 

Therapy can provide much-needed support, particularly during the holidays. This offers you a safe space to explore feelings and develop coping strategies. 

Emergency support 

If you’re experiencing a crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out for immediate help through hotlines or our dedicated staff. 

Navigating the holiday season with depression can be challenging. However, with the right tools and support, you can protect your mental health. 

If you’re struggling, you don’t have to do it alone —  call us at (908) 386-5112 or use our online booking tool to request an appointment today!