Don't let depression and anxiety ruin your holidays.

SHARP Health Care Center Tips to Avoid Seasonal Depression and Stress

The holiday season is a time full of parties and family gatherings, but for many people, it is also a time of self-evaluation, loneliness, reflection on past "failures" and anxiety about an uncertain future.

What Causes the "Holiday Blues"?

There are several factors that can cause the "holiday blues" including increased stress, fatigue, unrealistic expectations, over-commercialization and the inability to be with family. The increased demands of shopping, parties, family reunions and house guests also contribute to these feelings of tension. People who don't experience depression may develop other stress reactions including headaches, excessive drinking, over-eating and insomnia.

Even more people experience post-holiday let down. After Jan. 1, many people experience depression related to emotional disappointments during the preceding months, as well as the physical reactions caused by excess fatigue and stress.

The National Mental Health Association put together the following tips to

help you cope with depression and stress during the holidays.

1. Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable. Try to set realistic goals for yourself. Pace yourself. Organize your time. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Do not put your entire focus on just one day. Remember, it is a season of holiday sentiment and activities can be spread out to lessen stress and increase enjoyment.
2. Remember, the holiday season does not banish reasons for feeling sad or lonely. There is room for these feelings to be present, even if the person chooses not to express them.
3. Leave "yesteryear" in the past and look forward to the future. Life brings changes. Each season is different and can be enjoyed in its own way. Don't set yourself up in comparing today with the "good ol' days."
4. Do something for someone else. It's an old remedy, but it can help. Try volunteering some time to help others.
5. Enjoy activities that are free. Try driving around to look at holiday decorations or go window shopping without buying.
6. Be aware that excessive drinking will only increase your feelings of depression.
7. Don't be afraid to try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a way you have not done before.
8. Spend time with people that are supportive and care about you. Reach out and make new friends if you are alone this holiday season, or contact someone you have lost touch with.
9. Save time for yourself. Recharge your batteries. Let others share responsibilities of activities and ask for help.

For more information and to know where to seek help please visit: SHARP.COM and link to Mental Health Disorders in Adult Health or call The SHARP Senior Resource Center at 619-221-3779

SENIOR RESOURCE CENTER INFORMATION & REFERRAL

The Senior Resource Center staff is trained to help seniors and their families connect with other services. Do you need a Vial of Life? Do you need an Advanced Directive for Health Care form? Do you need information on caregiving, exercise or health? Call the Senior Resource Center at 619-221-3779.