- 11/24/2009
Prestonsburg – While many in our community see the holidays as a time of family gathering, parties and festive activities, for others the season is one of loneliness, anxiety and uncertainty about the future. For these people, the depression experienced is reflected in stress responses including headaches, heavy drinking, over-eating and sleep disorders.
According to documents released by Mental Health America (MHA), the depression often lasts into the New Year, as there is a general holiday let down after January 1. In fact, officials stated, depression and anxiety are found in greater numbers after the first of the year while many begin to plan their new year and set objectives for the coming year.
At Highlands Regional Medical Center, Behavioral Health Director Steve Triplett warned that mental health issues which affect many during this time of year are issues to be taken seriously. “Coping with stress is never an easy thing to do,” he explained. “For many, the feelings of fatigue, stress and depression can become overwhelming. Suicide rates are significantly higher during and immediately following the holiday season.”
The MHA also noted that some people suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), resulting from being exposed to few hours of sunlight during the winter months. It also points out a number of tips regarding coping with stress and depression during the holidays, including:
- Keep expectations manageable during the holiday season. Try to set realistic goals and be reasonable about expectations you place on yourself.
- Be realistic about what you can and can not do. Remember that activities can be spread out over the entire holiday season.
- Leave “yesteryear” in the past and look toward the future. Every season is different and life does, in fact, change.
- Do something for someone else. Volunteering your time releases personal anxiety.
- Enjoy free activities in the community.
- Be aware that excessive drinking will only increase feelings of depression.
- Try new ways to celebrate the holiday season.
- Spend time with caring and supportive people, including reaching out to make contact with someone you haven’t heard from in a while.
- Save time for yourself. Recharging your batteries is important, so let others share in the planning and implementation of activities.
If you wish to speak with a mental health professional, please contact the Behavioral Health Department at Highlands Regional Medical Center at (606) 886-7631.