What Can Depression Look Like
During the Holiday Season?

The holidays can be overwhelming at the best of times. If you are beginning to experience symptoms of depression this can add an additional layer. You may find it difficult to enjoy many things you used to love when you’re experiencing symptoms of depression. The holidays can add additional complications. You may have been wondering if you have depression and this holiday season is beginning to highlight some of your concerns. 

Knowing the Symptoms

The more you know about depression, the sooner you can intervene. You may already know you experience depression or you may just be beginning to wonder. Times like the holidays can cause an increase in symptoms. If you are finding that you aren’t enjoying the holidays like you used to this may be one of the first signs. 

Symptoms of Depression can include; 

  • Sad mood
  • Decreased motivation
  • Sleep changes (difficulty sleeping or sleeping excessively)
  • Appetite changes (eating more or less than is natural or healthy)
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or helplessness
  • Feeling slowed down or even sped up
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities you used to enjoy
  • Thoughts of death or harming yourself 

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to reach out to a therapist for an assessment. 

What Can This Look Like During the Holidays? 

While there are specific symptoms of depression, they can look different for different people. They can also manifest differently at different times. During the holidays, depression may seem more pronounced since it is a time of year that we believe we “should” be happy. 

Depression during the holidays can look like avoidance of activities you once loved. You may find yourself dreading an annual party that you used to look forward to. The joy you used to find in decorating may be replaced by a sense of looming obligation and overwhelm. You may feel tired rather than excited. The idea of deciding on gifts may feel awful. You may even find yourself wishing you could fade away or disappear so that you don’t have to face the stress of the season. 

During the holidays symptoms may be a bit different, though they also may be more obvious. If you are experiencing a sense of sadness during a season you used to enjoy, it may be time to reach out for help. 

Start Enjoying the Holidays with Carolina Counseling Services

CCS in Fuquay-Varina contracts with skilled licensed counselors and therapists who know how to effectively treat depression any time of the year. You can enjoy this holiday season, even if you are beginning to experience depression. 

Depression is treatable, especially with the right interventions. Therapy and medication management are often the most effective approaches. The sooner you start the sooner you can begin to feel better. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment. Online counseling and in person sessions are available.