SAN ANTONIO -- The holidays mean visitors and presents and meaningful rituals. But for many people, the holidays also mean money trouble, family tension, and even the blues.
Depression can be an unwelcome guest around the holidays. If you’re one of the ones who’s sad when everyone else is happy, you’re not alone.
The music, the merriment, the decorations, the shopping, the fun. The holidays equal joy for most of us. That’s why it’s counter-intuitive that 40 percent of us experience some degree of the holiday blues. And for 15 percent, it can be serious depression.
“It does take its toll,” said Dr. Robert Jimenez, medical director for behavioral health for Nix Health Care System.
Jimenez explained that money woes are making the holiday “to do” list more painful. “Right now, what’s fueling so much of this and making it much more serious is the economy,” he stated. “Trying to please everyone, get presents for everyone, and getting yourself into debt. That is stressful.
Jimenez offered these practical strategies for beating the holiday blues:
1. Get help, from a friend or a professional.
2. Set limits, on things like parties and spending.
3. Get outside.
4. Exercise regularly.
5. Limit alcohol consumption.
6. Get plenty of rest.
7. Treat yourself, not just others.
8. Start a new hobby.
Experts warn having unrealistic expectations about the joy of the season can damage an otherwise healthy time of year.
“Yes, there’s joy. Yes, there’s celebration,” Jimenez said. “But there’s also sadness there. It’s real.”
If the blues linger for weeks on end, it may be the beginning of a true depression, and you may need professional help. Don’t dismiss a long-term serious problem as a seasonal disorder.
