The Holidays Can Be A Difficult Time For Those With Depression

The holiday season can be full of fun and excitement – but it can also be full of stressors.

Psychologist Frank Ghinassi of UPMC's Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic said those with recurring mood disorders should be especially alert this time of year.  

“There are expectations around compressed work schedules, families, celebrations (and) the expectations of travel that are associated with this," he said. "So while there is an abundance of very positive things, I think those life stressors can be particularly taxing if somebody is already dealing with an ongoing mood disorder or depression.”

Researchers report 17 to 25 percent of Americans age 20 or over will suffer from depression at some point in their lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The early signs of depression can include difficulty getting and staying asleep, difficulty making small day-to-day decisions and an absence of satisfaction from things and activities that are normally pleasurable.

“As it worsens, it can begin to affect their ability to do day-to-day activities and it can begin to affect things like their appetites and other sorts of issues; but mostly it begins to get sort of more pronounced," he said. "They begin to find that activities of daily living become more and more difficult for them.”

Negative thoughts or feelings can be compounded as the days turn darker earlier this time of year, Ghinassi said.

Mayo Clinic staffers suggest those prone to depression should proactively assess their holiday plans and make allowances where necessary with these reminders:

• Acknowledge your feelings.
• Reach out if you feel lonely or isolated.
• Set realistic expectations about family and tradition.
• Set aside differences and lingering grievances.
• Stick to a budget for gifts and foot shopping.
• Set aside specific time for holiday activities like shopping, cooking or visiting friends.
• Say no when you need to.
• Don't abandon healthy habits like exercise and relaxation.
• Make time for yourself.
• Seek professional help if you need it.