How to Overcome The Holiday Blues and Holiday Depression |
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By: Charles Donovan Posted: 2006-12-26 02:24:18 |
| It is almost cliche to complain about stress and depression during the Holidays. But for many, the Holidays are truely a challenging time to manage stress and anxiety. Those symptoms need to be respected and require good coping techniques."Holiday blues" range from mild sadness during the holidays to severe depression. Holiday blues can affect both men and women, young and old. Factors contributing to holiday blues include increased stress and fatigue, unrealistic expectations, too much commercialization, and the inability to be with one's family. The increased demands of shopping, parties, family reunions, and house guests may also contribute to tension and sadness during the holidays. Common stress reactions during the holidays include headaches, excessive drinking, over-eating or not eating enough, and difficulty sleeping.This sadness or depression can be mitigated or prevented, and if it’s already present, it can be eased. To help prevent holiday blues, try to follow some of these basic tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), the American Psychological Association(APA) and the National Mental Health Association(NMHA).1. Establish realistic goals and expectations for the holiday season, and do not label the holiday season as a time to cure all past problems. The holidays do not prevent sadness or loneliness2. No booze or drugs3. Do not feel obliged to feel festive. Accept your inner experience and do not force yourself to express specific feelings. If attending a Holiday party is stressful for you, learn how to say "No, I am unable to attend. Thank you very much".While these three simple steps seem straightforward, they could help you to better cope with the many challenges during this time of year. Hopefully, it will make this season happier and more enjoyable for you.Charles Donovan was a patient in the FDA investigational trial of vagus nerve stimulation as a treatment for chronic or recurrent treatment-resistant depression. He was implanted with the vagus nerve stimulator in April of 2001. He chronicles his journey from the grips of depression thanks to vagus nerve stimulation therapy in his book:Out of the Black Hole: The Patient's Guide to Vagus Nerve Stimulation and DepressionHis all inclusive book prepares depression sufferers to make an informed decision about this ninety-minute out-patient procedure. It is a "must read" before you discuss this treatment with your psychiatrist. A prescription for the procedure is required from an M.D. and it is covered by most insurance plans. |
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