Turn your wounds into wisdom.
-Oprah Winfrey
Depression symptoms are never easy to deal with, especially with the best of circumstances and the best of emotional support in your everyday life. Add in depression during the perinatal period of pregnancy and/or postpartum, and it becomes that much harder to navigate (often needing therapist support and possible doctor intervention with medication). Now add the stressors of depression and the holiday season, a season that society tells us is only supposed to be filled with love and fun and connection, and many people end up with feelings of hopelessness and despair. Please know that if this resonates with you, you’re not alone in these feelings this time of year, and help and feeling better are possible with support from your doctor and/or a therapist in your area.
Here’s what you’ll find in this blog if you decide to read on (and I sure hope you do!): symptoms of depression to look out for around the holidays, symptoms of perinatal depression to look out for around the holidays, and finally, coping strategies to help with holiday depression. Please check out this short, quick information below!
Symptoms of depression to look out for around the holidays:
- Sleep changes- sleeping more or less than usual for you
- Feelings of guilt
- Depressed mood
- Suicidal thoughts
- Decreased energy
- Restlessness and agitation
- Lowered concentration level
- An increase or decrease in appetite
- Loss of interest in things you usually enjoy doing- especially this time of year around family traditions, connecting with friends and family, etc.
What else would you add here?
Symptoms of perinatal depression to look out for around the holidays:
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Exhaustion
- Restlessness
- Trouble remembering things
- Sadness/frequent crying spells
- Trouble sleeping/sleeping too much
- Feeling disconnected from your baby
- Frequent feelings of anger and frustration
- Not being hungry or eating more than usual
What else would you add to this list?
Coping strategies to help with holiday depression:
- Talk to a therapist
- Spend time outdoors
- Spend time with loved ones
- Talk to you doctor about medication
- Prioritize self-care
- Create a warm and cozy environment
What other coping strategies to help with holiday depression would you add here?
If you’re struggling with depression symptoms this time of year, please know that you’re not alone. Many of us feel depressed during the holiday season. Plus, the weather and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can also exacerbate these symptoms. If you could use more help and support right now, please reach out to your doctor or a therapist in your area. Know that I’m thinking of you and sending lots of love and compassion your way!
