Beating the holiday blues

For many of us, the holiday season is a time of joy and happiness, but for others it can be a stressful and challenging time of year.

It’s not uncommon to experience the “holiday blues” fueled by financial stresses, family conflict or tension, the myth of the perfect holiday, and loneliness. In fact, these stressors can be significant enough at this time of year that they often result in increased rates of depression.   

Many of us will feel a short bout of the “holiday blues” for one reason or another. To help beat those blues Doctors of BC offers a few suggestions:   

• Get plenty of sleep: Being well-rested can improve your mood and give you the reserves you need to take on whatever comes your way.
• Volunteer: Helping those less fortunate can provide an important perspective on what’s really important, and increase your appreciation for what you have in your life. It’s also a good way for those who can’t be with friends or family during the holidays to surround themselves with others.
• Spend time with others: Whether it be with friends, family, neighbours or colleagues spending time with other people is a key aspect of happiness.
• Exercise regularly: Even a quick 10-minute walk will increase your heart rate and release mood-boosting endorphins.
• Don’t overspend: Spending more than you can afford increases existing financial stresses and leads to debt. Set a budget, find DIY alternatives, or give gifts from the heart that don’t cost anything.
• Be ok saying “no”: You don’t have to accept every invitation that comes your way. Take time for yourself and don’t overschedule as it can increase stress and lead to emotional breakdowns. Focus on the quality of your commitments, and not the quantity.
• Limit your alcohol intake: Drinking to excess can affect your mood and amplify negative feelings and feelings of stress, sadness and depression.
• Avoid overeating: Social events over the holidays can often lead to overeating, which in turn can affect your mood and overall well-being.
• Focus on the real meaning of the season: Much holiday stress can result from losing sight of the real meaning behind the holidays. Take the time to reaffirm what the season means to you, whether it’s about family, community, or religion.

We hope these tips help ease some of the challenges of the season.

Doctors of BC wishes you a joyful and stress-free holiday!