While Some have unmet resolutions as the year ends, and are bombarded by photos and social media posts from friends and colleagues on vacation at exotic locations, others are in seemingly endless parties.
This among other feelings is what is referred to as Christmas depression or the “Christmas Blues”.
These are a variety of emotional and psychological distresses that many people experience during the holiday season.
Although the term is not clinical, it encompasses feelings of sadness, anxiety, and loneliness that might arise out of societal expectations of joy and togetherness during Christmas.
Christmas depression is usually temporary, unlike chronic depression, and is most often brought on by specific holiday-related stressors. These include family conflicts, financial pressures, feelings of isolation and late social media pressure.
Common symptoms include feelings of sadness, irritability, fatigue, loss of interest in holiday activities, and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. Individuals may also experience changes in appetite or sleep patterns and increased substance use as a coping mechanism.
Several factors contribute to the development of Christmas depression, including unrealistic expectations as a result of Media depiction of an idealized Christmas.
This leads people to experience a holiday that is usually unrealistically portrayed, which makes them disappointed when reality does not meet up to their expectations. Have you watched Hollywood Christmas movies?
Some people may experience loneliness and isolation, particularly during holidays when they cannot be with loved ones or feel that they lack adequate social support.
Have you noted the mass migration to rural areas and holiday destinations during this festive month? This may make those who can’t due to work or other reasons feel lonely or isolated.
Family dynamics like conflicts within families or memories of past trauma can heighten feelings of distress during what is supposed to be a joyous time, with those supposedly being pressured to start their own families even going to the extent of ‘hiring’ holiday partners to appease the inquisitive relatives.
HOW TO COPE
There are a number of strategies we can employ to cope with the pressures of the season, including setting realistic expectations and accepting that holiday time does not need to be perfect; what’s important is connecting with family and friends, having fun, and relaxing.
Practising self-care by paying attention to one’s personal well-being by relaxing, exercising, eating healthy and avoiding overindulgence in harmful substances, will help to reduce stress levels this holiday season.
Limiting social media exposure could help individuals evade comparisons with those very blissful and amazing Christmas experiences.
Finally, seeking support by connecting with friends, family or support groups may help to decrease loneliness and improve emotional well-being.
The writer is a licensed psychologist/psychiatrist clinical officer and lecturer KMTC Meru Campus
