If you’ve ever felt like a “Bah Humbug” stranded on Candy Cane Lane during the holidays, you are not alone. Holiday depression is common and often caused by stress, high expectations, lack of sunshine or loneliness. Often described as a feeling of sadness that persists throughout the holiday season, holiday depression affects everyone, including children.
During the month of December, holiday depression is a frequent subject of the calls received by the counselors on the Boys Town National Hotline. “Our counselors understand that the holidays can be overwhelming and stressful, which often leads to depression” said Oscar Gonzalez, Director of the Boys Town National Hotline. “The good news is that holiday depression can be managed by finding better ways to cope, taking steps to ease the stress, and finding the support needed to relax and enjoy the season.”
Boys Town offers these tips to make the holidays more joyful by easing the holiday blues:
· Minimize the demands you put on yourself and others
· Avoid overscheduling your holiday obligations and remember it’s OK to decline an invitation or leave an event early
· Watch your budget – overspending on holiday gifts is a common source of stress
· Recognize when you need help and ask your friends and family for assistance with jobs like decorating and cookie baking
· Don’t expect perfection – something always seems to go wrong, so don’t let it spoil the celebration
· Keep some balance in your life and take some time to relax
· Focus on the love you have for your family and friends and keep the peace by not dwelling on the negatives
· Show respect for the faiths and traditions that your family and friends practice
If you’re struggling with the holiday blues or if those feelings remain even into the new year, reach out to the Boys Town hotline, where counselors are available 24/7 by phone or text at 1-800-448-3000, or visit our website at www.yourlifeyourvoice.org
