For many, the holiday season is the happiest time of the year. It’s when people feel joyful and grateful in the company of family and friends. However, others actually experience higher levels of depression during the holiday season. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone.

Why Does Depression Increase During the Holiday Season?

‘Tis the season to be jolly, right? Not always. Even those who have not been diagnosed with clinical depression often report excessive stress during the holiday season. What is it about this time of year that may trigger depressive symptoms?

If you have symptoms of depression, the image of a perfect holiday can be anything but cheerful. The shorter, darker days combined with the season’s stressors can produce more sadness than merriment. “Merry” occasions can leave some people feeling lonely, even in a roomful of people. They may wonder why they can’t shake the feeling of sadness and be happy like those around them. The season may be a particularly difficult time to confront losses, family conflict, divorce, loneliness, or chronic illness. Another source of distress may be the overwhelming demands of the holidays – shopping, decorating, cleaning, cooking, entertaining, and parties. The holiday season can trigger depressive symptoms for a variety of reasons. If you are experiencing depression leading into the holidays, you are not alone.

Depressive Symptoms and The Holidays

Despite your best effort to enjoy the season, you may still feel low. You may find yourself feeling distressed or anxious at the thought of shopping or attending parties. You may be unable to sleep, feel a loss of interest in doing routine and traditional chores, or feel irritable or hopeless. You may also experience some physical symptoms such as headache or change in appetite.

The good news is that depression is treatable! You are not alone, and therapy can help. Having a safe space to talk about your feelings can be beneficial. It often takes a concerted effort to identify what is causing your depressive symptoms.

Take Control of Your Holidays

Untreated depression may cause you to dread the holidays. Instead of feeling helpless, take control of your feelings. If you find it difficult to talk with those around you about how you are feeling, talk to a therapist.

The independently contracted counselors at Carolina Counseling Services want to help you find peace and joy during the holidays. Call Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC to schedule an appointment, and start enjoying the holidays again!

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