Not Feeling So Jolly?

Amid the flurry of putting up decorations, giving gifts and seeing family, you may not realize it. Underneath all the hoopla, though, you could be feeling sad. It may be time to listen to your soul.

You might have depression - a low-lying sadness that is present all year. But come the holidays, its volume is turned up a notch, making you feel even worse. That's because certain events can intensify depression around the holidays. These include:

• High levels of stress and anxiety.
• Absence of a strong social network of family and friends.
• Missing a loved one who has died.
• Going through the holidays after a divorce or separation.
• Financial problems.

Depression is a highly treatable medical condition, affecting 35 million Americans in their lifetimes.

If you are aware of symptoms of depression, you can help yourself feel better. See your doctor if you think you are depressed. Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants. (Editor's Note: Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicide or the worsening of depression, particularly at the start of treatment or when dosing is changed.) These tips can help you deal more effectively.

• Stick to a schedule. Holidays can really throw off your sleeping and eating routines, creating more stress. Too much stress can worsen or trigger your depression.
• Try to be around people who support and love you. Having people to confide in can help you deal with trauma or stress. You will feel less alone. Organize small get-togethers with people who care about you to help strengthen bonds. Don't make it centered around giving gifts. That's just added pressure. Also, be sure to reach out to someone, such as a co-worker, who may not have close family or friends nearby.
• Stick to a healthy diet. Good food choices can make you feel good about yourself because you are making decisions that keep your body healthy. They also give you the energy you need to make it through your day. Keep in mind that too much sugar, caffeine or alcohol can worsen depressive symptoms.
• Create your own traditions. This is an excellent way to help create healthy, happy memories without the shadows of Christmases past.
• Exercise. Any kind of physical activity can help you deal with the symptoms of depression. Exercise stimulates the production of endorphins - those feel-good chemicals in your brain. Plus, physical activity can help reduce the stress hormone cortisol, release muscle tension and allow you to sleep better.
• Be good to yourself. Do your best with finding gifts, and take it one day at a time. Remember, it's the thought that counts as well as getting together with loved ones. Gifts come second to that.
• Don't drink alcohol. This is especially important if you are taking antidepressants, because alcohol may make symptoms worse.

Relax and take care of yourself. Your good health is a valuable gift. Cherish and appreciate it.

Related Articles Exercise Your Depression Away Finding Help for Depression Understanding Depression Treating Depression

External Source Depressive and Bipolar Support Alliance

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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