Category: depression

As the festive season rolls around, it’s supposed to be all about joy, celebration, and making merry memories. But for many young adults, this time of year can sometimes bring about a different tune – the holiday blues. Sometimes underlying depression surfaces. Let’s talk about both and how to cope.

What Are Holiday Blues?

Imagine feeling a bit down or having a lingering sense of sadness amid the glittering lights and cheerful tunes. That’s the holiday blues in a nutshell. And for young adults, this experience can be amplified, especially if the family environment isn’t the warm and cozy haven it’s meant to be.

When home doesn’t feel like the sanctuary it should, the holiday blues can hit harder. Whether it’s tension among family members, the absence of loved ones, or simply feeling disconnected from the holiday spirit, these blues can sneak up on you when you least expect it. And going home from college for a few weeks to a month can be torturous for some young adults, especially if not accepted for your lifestyle, identity, or just not being understood.

Signs You Might Be Struggling

Ask yourself:

1. Are your feelings of sadness or isolation persistent?
2. Do you find it challenging to enjoy activities you usually love during the holidays?
3. Are you withdrawing from friends and family?
4. Do you notice changes in your eating or sleeping patterns?

If these feelings and changes persist for more than a couple of weeks, it might mean more than experiencing the holiday blues (which is short term) and it might be time to seek additional support. You’re not alone, and there are ways to navigate these emotions. Let’s talk about how to differentiate between the holiday blues and depression.

What Is Depression?

Depression is more than feeling down in the dumps during the holidays. It’s a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness. Symptoms of depression can affect various aspects of your life, including your mood, thoughts, and physical health.

Symptoms of Depression

Here are some common signs and symptoms of depression:

1. Persistent Sadness: Feeling down most of the day, nearly every day.
2. Loss of Interest: Losing interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed.
3. Changes in Appetite or Weight: Significant changes in appetite leading to weight loss or gain.
4. Sleep Disturbances: Trouble sleeping or sleeping excessively.
5. Fatigue or Loss of Energy: Feeling tired, sluggish, or lacking energy.
6. Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Persistent feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
7. Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
8. Physical Aches and Pains: Experiencing unexplained physical aches and pains.

Distinguishing Between the Holiday Blues and Depression

While the holiday blues are typically temporary and linked to the specific time of year with some symptoms above, depression tends to linger and affects your day-to-day functioning (school, work, social, home). It’s essential to pay attention to the intensity and duration of your feelings.

The holiday blues might make you feel a bit low, but if these feelings persist for weeks or months and interfere with your ability to enjoy life or carry out daily tasks, it could be depression.

Tips for Coping at the Holidays

Here are a few tips and strategies to help you cope at the holidays:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay not to feel festive all the time. Allow yourself to feel what you feel without judgment.
2. Stay Connected: Reach out to friends, even virtually. Connection is crucial, especially when you’re feeling down.
3. Create Your Own Traditions: If the usual holiday traditions don’t resonate with you, create new ones that bring you joy.
4. Practice Self-Care: Take time for yourself. Engage in activities that soothe and recharge you, whether it’s meditation, exercise, or reading.
5. Consider Therapy: Sometimes, professional help can be incredibly beneficial. Therapy offers a safe space to explore your emotions and develop coping strategies.

It’s Okay to Ask for Support

If you recognize symptoms in yourself or someone you care about and coping skills on your own aren’t enough, it’s essential to seek professional help. Depression is treatable, and reaching out for support is a courageous step towards healing.

Why Telehealth is an Ideal Solution

Telehealth has emerged as a game-changer in mental health support. And guess what? It’s an ideal solution, especially during the busy holiday season.

Imagine being able to access therapy from the comfort of your own space, without the hassle of commuting or scheduling conflicts. Telehealth offers convenience without compromising the quality of care. Plus, it’s confidential and secure, ensuring your privacy.

Explore Your Options

If you find yourself struggling with the holiday blues, depression, or any mental health issues, take that courageous step. Reach out, explore therapy options in your state (I’m taking Florida clients as we speak!), and prioritize your well-being. Your mental health matters, and you deserve the support you need.

I specialize in supporting young adults like you through difficult times. Reach out today to learn more about how I can support you through telehealth sessions and personalized care. I also offer online workshops for other concerns, so check them out.

Remember, you’re not alone in this. Let’s work together to make this holiday season a more peaceful and joyful time for you.

Contact Me in 4 Easy Ways:

• Click the yellow “Book Online” button above for your free 15 minute phone consultation 
• If you have insurance, schedule the call through Headway
• Fill out the form below for your call (I’ll contact you by secure voice and/or text to schedule our consultation time) 
• Call me at 321-415-0832 

***Must be living in Florida to receive my therapy services. It’s OK if your permanent address is in another state and you attend college in Florida!

Also, take a glance at my online workshops to see if any would be helpful for your concern.

If you need immediate assistance, please call 911 or call/text with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. For LGBTQIA+ specific support, visit https://www.thetrevorproject.org/.

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