Title: Holiday Depression: Definition, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Coping
Headings: What Are the Holiday Blues?
What Are the Holiday Blues?
What Are the Holiday Blues?
Signs & Symptoms
Holiday Depression vs. SAD
Diagnosis
Causes
Treatment
Coping
Drink Only in Moderation
Don’t Isolate Yourself
Exercise Regularly
Learn to Say 'No'
Find Time for Yourself
Set Realistic Expectations
How to Get Help
A Word From Verywell

Content: Signs & Symptoms
Diagnosis
Causes
Treatment
Coping
How to Get Help
What Are the Holiday Blues? Feelings of sadness that last throughout the holiday season—especially during the months of November and December—are often referred to as the holiday blues or holiday depression. The holidays are usually viewed as a time of happiness and rejoicing. But for some people, it can be a period of painful reflection, sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Even people who love the holidays can experience the blues during this busy season. The holidays are often a time of high emotion and demands, which can leave a lot of people feeling stressed and exhausted. People with a prior mental health condition may be even more prone to experiencing holiday depression. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of people with an existing mental illness report that the holidays make their condition worse. 1 ﻿﻿﻿
Signs & Symptoms
The most common symptom of holiday depression is a persistent or recurring feeling of sadness that begins during the holiday season. This feeling may vary in intensity and duration.