“Mental pain is less dramatic than physical pain, but it is more common and also more hard to bear. The frequent attempt to conceal mental pain increases the burden: it is easier to say “My tooth is aching” than to say “My heart is broken.””
For people with depression, the holidays can be a particularly challenging time. Often, people with depression have a negative view of themselves and their lives. If their idealized beliefs about what the holidays should look like don’t match their perceived reality, it can be very difficult to manage. They may feel inadequate when perusing social media or receiving holiday cards, and seeing only happy news that people share. It perpetuates existing feelings that their lives don’t meet expectations and that others are doing much better.
When people are depressed they often withdraw and self-isolate and the emphasis on spending time with family and friends during the holiday season can be exhausting. There is more on their to-do lists, more gatherings, and more social interactions that can also be stressful.
If the holiday season is emotionally intense or chaotic for you, these tips may help:
Don’t neglect yourself.
Self-care is key during the holidays. For instance, keep eating nutrient-rich foods and getting restful sleep.
Simplify the holidays.
Figure out which parts of the holidays are most important and meaningful to you and prioritize accordingly. Set firm boundaries with family and friends. This will help minimize stress and overwhelm.
Find your reason to celebrate.
Dealing with chronic depression can pull you down. Try to find things to be joyful about, no matter how small. Listening to music, baking, decorating, etc can give you something positive to focus your energy on.
Routine, routine, routine.
Stick with your normal routine. Having a predictable structure to your days will help you better deal with unpredictable holiday stress.
Keep active.
Try to get outside and get moving. Regular exercise can keep depression at bay and give you a sense of calm and accomplishment.
I HOPE YOU HAVE A HAPPY AND STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY SEASON!
Learn more about setting healthy holiday boundaries: 5 Simple Tips for Maintaining Healthy Holiday Boundaries
Learn more about stress management during the Holidays: 9 Simple Tips for Managing Holiday Stress and Overwhelm
Learn more about how therapy helps with managing stress: 5 Ways Therapists Help Their Clients Overcome Stress
Learn more about self-care: 10 Ways To Practice Self-care (that won't cost a thing)!
Learn more about therapy: The Truth about Psychotherapy: Confronting Ten Common Misconceptions