The holiday season, for many, is a time of year filled with happiness and joy.  Many workers have a holiday vacation, usually aimed at using the time to find present and spend time with family.  The sight of smiling Santa Clauses, glowing nativity scenes, and the Christmas lights in the neighborhood are usually causes of joy.  The sound of joyful caroling, the beauty of white snow, and the overall happiness in people can be contagious!

Unfortunately, not everyone experiences happiness during the holiday season.  Some people suffer from the holiday blues, becoming victim to stress and depression.  Stress can take over one’s life during the holiday season, especially when the individual is focused on getting presents for their loved ones.  Stories about mothers and fathers fighting in toy stores are well documented, and can definitely induce stress.  Financial stress can also be a cause of depression in many cases, as the stress of buying presents or hosting holiday parties can take its toll.

Depression is not uncommon during the holiday times, as the stress and fatigue of the year may have caught up to them come December.  In cases where an individual is unable to be with friends or family during the holidays, depression may be the natural response.  Depression, as a disorder, can be severely dangerous, as it makes one much more susceptible to suicide and emotional disorders.  Having to balance shopping, family, and work may cause stress and subsequent depression in even the most jolly of jollies!

Others may suffer from seasonal affective disorder, fittingly known as SAD.  In SAD, people change behaviors and moods when there is less sunlight.  In the wintertime, sunlight is at its lowest, with the sun setting earlier than it does in any other season.  Depression is a common symptom of SAD, along with the additional stress associated with the depressive symptoms.

So how can you fight depression and stress during the holiday season? Don’t let the Grinch steal your happiness, follow these simple tips to avoid depression during the Christmas procession!

- Leave high expectations for God!  Make sure to set realistic expectations and goals for yourself, and do not take on more responsibilities than you think you can handle.

- Making a list is always a good idea when experiencing stress.   In this case, write a list of holiday tasks to stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

- Spread your energy out through different tasks, instead of just one day.  Live in the moment and enjoy the holidays with optimistic thoughts!

- If you are feeling lonely, find a place where you can volunteer.  Helping others through their stress and depression is a sure-fire way to avoid being stressed and depressed yourself!  You will also meet people who are fun and optimistic, bringing up your spirits.

- Alcohol may increase depression, so avoid drinking too much during the holidays

- Make new friends and call old friends.  Surround yourself with caring and happy people.

- Be smart with your money!  Buying gifts is a good way to show that you care, but you do not want to deal with the depression that may come with the bill at the end of the month.