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: Financial stress: Overextending yourself financially or struggling to afford gifts for family and friends can create an added burden of financial stress. Isolation and loneliness: Not being able to spend the holidays with your family and friends can make the holiday season seem especially lonely. Unrealistic expectations: Sometimes even having high hopes for the season can lead to holiday stress and sadness. The over-commercialization of the holidays can create the expectation that people are supposed to feel nonstop joy and holiday cheer, which can create pressure to feel a very specific way, adding yet another stressor to an already hectic time of year. Because the holidays mark an impending new year, people may also begin to reflect on the past year and experience feelings of regret or failure. They might think about the goals they had and the things they wanted to accomplish and feel upset if they did not meet those expectations. It isn't just adults who are prone to seasonal sadness.