December is supposed to be a time of joyful celebration and good cheer, a time to ward off the darkness of winter with lights and happiness. Yet, for many people the season can become overwhelming with all the expectations, stress, and spending associated with the holidays. These intense and extreme seasonal expectations that go unmet and cause bouts of sadness and depression are known as the Holiday Blues.

Holiday blues may occur on any holiday or vacation time. Many factors contribute to the holiday blues including, increased stress, fatigue, unrealistic expectations for the holiday season, inability to be with family, memories of past holiday celebrations, over commercialization, bereavement, change in diet, and change in daily routines. The increased demands of shopping, family gatherings, parties, and houseguests can add stress and anxiety for anyone.

Symptoms of the holiday blues can include, headaches, trouble sleeping or excessive sleeping, changes in weight, anxiety, and excessive feelings of guilt. To relieve these symptoms try the health tips below or find ways to relieve your stress by taking time for yourself, expressing your feelings to others, or asking for help from other family members with shopping or preparing for holiday events.

Some tips to ward off holiday blues:

• Establish realistic expectations for the holiday season. If your family can’t be together mail them a card letting them know you are thinking about them. Consider reaching out and call a friend or family member to talk. Communicate your feelings constructively and honestly.
• Don’t overbook yourself. The office party, the family gathering, the friend’s dinner all in one week can stress anyone out. Instead of a festive holiday, you find yourself dreading the next engagement. Know your limits. Instead of overextending your time, try to collaborate with others. Instead of the headache of a family feast landing on one person’s shoulders, try a potluck or a grill night where everyone brings a dish to cut down stress and preparation. Set your boundaries and don’t feel guilty about limiting your social activities. A happy you at a festive event is better than a stressed out you.
• Limit your drinking. Alcohol consumption can affect mood and body chemistry, by limiting drinking you can lessen bouts of depression and keep your body chemistry at a normal level.
• Don’t feel pushed to be festive. Accept your feelings and do not force yourself to specific feelings. If you have experienced a recent tragedy, a death or break-up, be honest about your feelings and tell people.
• Know your spending limit and stick to it. Not everyone needs an expensive gift, simply spending time with family and friends shows you care; a small card or thoughtful letter is more than enough to let them know you are thinking of them. Many people overspend and end up paying for the holiday months later. Keep to your budget or make simple craft gifts to hand out to extended family and friends with your children.
• Exercise regularly. A daily walk or trip to the gym can relieve build up stress and aid in keeping off those holiday pounds. It also helps promote regular sleeping patterns, one of the major symptoms of the Holiday Blues.

Remember to keep the holidays festive without overburdening yourself.

Border Area Mental Health Services offers caring professional consolers ready to help you with any troubles you are experiencing this holiday season. To reach Border Area Mental Health Services in Grant and Hidalgo Counties, call 388-4412; in Catron County, call 533-6649; in Luna County, call 546-2174.  For CRISIS, call 538-3488 or outside Silver City, call 1-800-426-0997.