By Tamber Health

Most of us think of the holiday season as a time of joy, filled with the satisfaction of being with family and friends. However, sadness and depression may affect some people during the holidays. Many things can contribute to negative emotions during the holidays — busyness, financial stress, shorter days with less sunshine, loneliness, revisiting the loss of a loved one or the pressure of trying to please others.

Feeling sad is never easy, but it’s especially hard during the holidays. If you’re one of the many who feels stressed and sad during the holidays, here are a few tips to help you handle the holiday blues:

• Ask for help from friends and family. You don’t have to do everything alone.
• Pace yourself. Make a list of the really important things and do them gradually. Balance work and play.
• Sit in the sun! Sunlight can help your mood, and taking a break from other activities can be calming.
• Stay within a budget. Don’t try to buy happiness and create financial stress. Focus on being with those you love, and not on material possessions as the measure of a successful holiday.
• Spend some time alone if needed. A little time by yourself can be calming and refresh you to tackle all your activities or tasks. Reading, listening to music or taking a walk can help you clear your mind.
• …but don’t isolate yourself. If you feel lonely or isolated, consider volunteering to help someone else.
• Stay busy. Use distractions like hobbies, puzzles, games and reading to occupy your mind if needed.
• Be good to yourself. Don’t spend all your energy on others, but remember to save some for yourself. Consider spoiling yourself a little.
• Think positively. Recognize and challenge negative thoughts. Acknowledge your feelings.
• Set boundaries. Be realistic and plan ahead — and also remember that it’s okay to say no and prioritize the things most important to you and your loved ones.

Are Your Blues Something More?

When you take steps to address the stresses that can trigger the holiday blues, you can combat the causes and find peace and joy during the holiday season. But sometimes, self-care is not enough. Watch for signs that your “holiday blues” are becoming depression. Professional help may be needed if the signs last more than a few weeks or become severe. The symptoms of depression include:

• Sleeping problems
• Lack of enjoyment of usual activities
• Guilt or hopeless feelings
• Low energy
• Decreased attention and concentration
• Changes in appetite
• Feeling slowed down or more irritable than usual
• Thoughts about death or dying

Depression is much more serious and lasts longer than the holiday blues. If depression symptoms interfere with your relationships and regular activities, consider taking a mental health assessment, or seek professional help. Depression is a serious illness, but with treatment, you can feel better and enjoy future holidays.