Holiday Blues

This time of the year can prove to be the most depressing times for the strongest, happiest people. Depression is real and often ignored. Most importantly, there are many ways to help with depression and the "Holiday Blues".

The"Holiday Blues ", originated of course from "The Blues", a known form of music. "The Blues" means down spirits, depression, and sadness. These feelings of depression are often felt mostly during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, but can be experienced during any holiday. The good news: it is usually self-limiting and goes away when the holidays are over, after regular routines are resumed and all of the celebration is over. The bad news: it could be dangerous and sometimes deadly.

The symptoms of "The Holiday Blues" are very similar to regular old depression in which the person experiences changes in sleeping (more sleep is more comon) and eating patterns (weight gain is common), loss of interest in the normal activites, lack of concentration, and others. Some people have more anxiety, nausea, and headaches.

The treatment for "The Holiday Blues"...believe it or not, you can do a lot yourself to help with the symptoms of holiday blues just as you can with regular depression. Since true Holiday Blues and not depression, is short-lived, those affected can help themselves out by staying on a normal eating and sleeping pattern and not overindulging in the wrong foods. Bad eating habits often lead to unwanted weight gain, unpleasant GI symptoms, and other short- and long-term health problems including depression. Over-spending and not having money to purchase Christmas gifts or other holiday wants, often leads to the Holiday Blues also. Planning ahead and setting a budget helps. Don't forget the true reason for the season! Spending time with the ones you love and who love you is always positive. Volunteering and helping those who are less fortunate than yourself can easily take your mind off your own problems, perhaps putting things in perspective. If the symptoms are still not improved after doing your part, see your primary healthcare provider. If you do not have one, find a reputable Nurse Practitioner near you. Because the best PCPs are often booked, do not ignore serious symptoms such as suicidal or homicidal ideations. Those are treated as high-priority and urgent needs and any PCP will be happy to expedite your appointment or get a referral to a mental health clinician. Happy Holidays!