Stress, Depression, and the Holidays

HealthWatch for December 2006
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The December holiday season is often portrayed as a happy time of glistening fireplaces, flawless family gatherings, bountiful food and gifts, and personal reflection. For many, however, those expectations are unrealistic and overwhelming, and loneliness, restricted finances and unwanted social demands result in stress, a sense of loss, and depression.

Feelings of stress and depression can be overcome. Try some of these 12 pre-emptive strategies to help make the holidays a joyous time not to be missed.

Acknowledge Your Feelings
Seek Support from People Who Care about You
Be Realistic
Set Differences Aside
Stick to a Budget
Plan Ahead
Learn to Say No
Don’t Abandon Healthy Habits
Take a Breather
Rethink Resolutions
Forget about Perfection
Seek Professional Help if You Need It

Resource: Mayo Clinic - Article: Stress, depression and the holidays: 12 tips for coping – mayoclinic.com

State and Local Resources

Lorain County Board of Mental Health: Coping with the Holidays Booklet (1.800.360.3070)
The Ohio State University Extension: Family Fundamentals: Happy Holidays? Cope with Stress, Tension
Ohio Health: Understand Your Sources of Stress
The Cleveland Clinic: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Cuyahoga County Community Mental Health Board at 216.241.3400
Netwellness: Depression

National Resources

AMHC: A Primer on Coping (and some Holiday applications)
Hospice : How to Help Ourselves Through the Holidays
American Psychological Association: Coping with Holiday Stress

Enjoy Your Holidays!