Happy Holidays…Or Not?
By Jennifer Comer, M.D., Medical Director, Bloomington Meadows Acute Psychiatric Hospital and Intensive Outpatient Services; Board certified in youth and adolescent psychiatry as well as board certified in adult psychiatry
We have been told for centuries that the holidays are magical and the happiest time of the year. It’s parties, gift-giving, spending time with friends and family and special events. For some, this time of year can have the opposite effect and leave them doubting why they are not feeling so festive.
The holidays can also be the most stressful time of the year: trying to schedule in activities, financial strain, being separated from loved ones and trying to capture the nostalgia of bygone years can take quite a mental toll on anyone. There is also the post-holiday blues when one returns to work or school after the glitz of the holidays and regular life sinks back in.
For those already dealing with mental health illnesses, the holidays can be a more challenging time. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, more than 60 percent of people with a mental health diagnosis report worsening of symptoms over the holidays. The causes are myriad: stressful schedules, not feeling that there is enough time, holiday trauma, celebrating the holidays after losing someone, but most troubling to many people is isolation.
Isolation can exist both from not having family or friends to spend time with, from feelings of being excluded when watching others’ social media accounts, or from a self-imposed isolation of those suffering from depression or anxiety. Sometimes the thought of joining in on the revelry and parties can overwhelm people.
What to Do If You Are Depressed During the Holidays
Some signs that you may be experiencing heightened depression during the holidays includes feeling of sadness, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating and losing pleasure in the activities that used to bring them joy.
To help improve symptoms, there are some steps that can be followed:
- Continue medications as prescribed by health care providers.
- Limit alcohol intake that can cause impulsivity.
- Don’t isolate from friends and family, but it’s ok to say no if your schedule gets too over packed.
- Make sure to take time to relax and get adequate sleep and exercise.
Reach out if you are struggling and need help.
Bloomington Meadows Can Help
Located in Bloomington, Indiana, Bloomington Meadows is here for you. If you are struggling or know someone that needs treatment, give us a call. Our door is always open to serve you, regardless of the weather, the holidays or whatever life brings.
We offer inpatient care as well as outpatient programming. Providing a no-cost mental health assessment, our professionals can guide you or your loved one to appropriate treatment. Don’t struggle alone. Call 1-800-972-4410 to start the conversation.
About Bloomington Meadows Hospital
Bloomington Meadows Hospital specializes in providing each patient with a comprehensive behavioral and mental health counseling programs from a compassionate and caring staff. We pride ourselves on being dedicated to helping patients restore their health and obtain a fresh start.
We under that every person is unique, so all of our treatment plans and mental health counseling programs are individually designed to meet specific needs. Some of our services include our adults and children & adolescents programs, as well as our intensive outpatient programs.
We’re committed to the wellness of our patients, their families and the communities we serve. To schedule a no-cost assessment or for more information, please call 1-833-972-3358.
