Health

Holiday Blues or Severe Depression?

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Everyone in the world seems happy and in a celebratory mood. But not you. Instead, you feel sad, anxious, lonely and depressed.

These are symptoms of what is typically called the holiday blues or holiday depression. While they could occur during any holiday or vacation time, they are more common during the November and December holidays.

The blues, said Alfredo Aguirre, director of the Behavioral Health Services division of the County’s Health and Human Services Agency, are usually the result of high expectations.

“For some people, it’s quite stressful, especially if they are detached from family and friends,” Aguirre said. “The pressures to create the perfect holiday really lead to stress.” 

How can you keep the blues at bay?

“It’s all about balance,” said Aguirre, who also offered these tips:

  • Establish realistic goals and expectations
  • Set a spending limit and stick to it
  • Limit consumption of alcoholic beverages
  • Get involved with others and spend time with people who are supportive and caring
  • Look for opportunities to express kindness by volunteering at a shelter or nursing home
  • Eat healthy, exercise regularly and try to laugh; laughing is a great aerobic exercise

Although emotionally intense and upsetting, the blues usually subside after the holidays and normal routines are resumed.

After the holidays, if you are still feeling depressed, sad and discouraged, you may be suffering from severe depression, so keep an eye for the following signs:

  • Loss of interest in once-pleasurable and enjoyable activities
  • Eating more or less than usual, or gaining or losing weight
  • Having trouble sleeping, or sleeping more than usual
  • Feeling slow or restless
  • Lack of energy
  • Feeling hopeless, helpless, or inadequate
  • Having difficulty concentrating, thinking clearly or making decisions
  • Persistent thoughts of death or suicide
  • Withdrawal from others

“It is important to seek help from your primary care physician or a mental health professional if your symptoms are so severe that they interfere with your normal relationships,” added Aguirre.

People suffering from depression or from an alcohol or drug-related problem should seek help from friends, family members, a faith-based organization or call the County’s Access and Crisis Line at 888-724-7240. Help is also available at www.Up2SD.org.

José A. Álvarez is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact