12/17/2025
"Coping Through the Holidays When You’re Feeling Blue: It's Okay If..."
The holidays are often a mixed bag of emotions. For some, it’s the most wonderful time of the year filled with family, friends and reasons to celebrate. For others, it may be a time of deep sorrow, reflection, loneliness and strife. And with unfortunate events happening across the world all year long, a celebration of any kind may be the furthest from your mind.
"What is Holiday Depression?"
Holiday depression feels a lot like regular depression, but it’s triggered by the onset of holidays, holiday get-togethers, large family gatherings, and attending or hosting social events. Holiday depression is similar to “winter blues,” but it may come and go in quick bursts as one event ends and another begins, or it can linger for the days or weeks leading up to and beyond the holiday season.
"Causes of Holiday Depression."
Holiday depression can cause a disruption to your relationships, your mental health and your ability to manage everything that comes along with the holiday season. But what causes it, exactly? Here are a few clues:
1. Stressful schedules.
2. Putting pressure on yourself.
3. Separation from loved ones and loneliness.
4. Family conflicts and feuds.
5. Seasonal affective disorder.
6. Social anxiety.
7. Holiday traumas or medical emergencies.
"How to Deal with Holiday Depression."
As daunting as this all may feel, you’re not alone in those feelings. There are ways to cope and find support and emotional stability to help get you through this time of year. Here are a few:
1. Remember a loved one at holiday gatherings.
2. Set boundaries during holiday events like leaving early or declining the invitation to celebrate.
3. Stay connected with those who support you.
4. Participate in charity work and seek out new relationships.
5. Limit social media use.
6. Seek support and help from a close family member or friend about what you’re going through.
~ Excerpts from the Cleveland Clinic/org.
Edited by Randi M. Brodmann, N.D.