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: