Beating the Holiday Blues

Tips on Managing and Avoiding the Holiday Blues

‘Tis the season to be jolly – right? Wrong.  

For many people the winter holiday season is a fun time of the year filled with parties and social gatherings with family and friends. But for many others, this season often brings unwelcome guests — stress, sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and depression. 

The difference between the Holiday Blues and clinical anxiety or depression is that the feelings are temporary. However, because short-term feelings can lead to long-term mental health conditions they should be taken seriously. Therefore, do not ignore your feelings of:

• Fatigue

• Anxiety

• Irritability

• Loneliness or isolation

• Hopelessness

• Sadness

• A sense of loss 

If these feelings last for a while, it is important to address them. If you or someone you know needs help, seek a mental health professional.  

Tips for Avoiding the Holiday Blues 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):   

• Stick to normal routines as much as possible

• Get enough sleep

• Take time for yourself, but do not isolate yourself. Spend time with supportive,

caring people

Exercising and listening to music can help some people avoid the holiday blues.

• Eat and drink in moderation. Do not drink alcohol if you are feeling down

• Get exercise – even if it’s only taking a short walk

• Make a to-do list. Keep things simple

• Set reasonable expectations for holiday activities such as shopping, cooking,

entertaining, attending parties

• Set a budget for holiday activities. Do not overextend yourself financially in

buying presents

• Find ways to relax like listening to music