Resources to Cope with the Holiday Blues

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The holiday season is a bustling time that may bring a mix of emotions – it can be a joyous time and also a time of stress, anxiety, loneliness and depression.

While these feelings can creep in any time of year, they can be more common in November and December.

"The winter holidays are an evocative time and for some people can be emotionally difficult, leading to episodes of depression, anxiety and harmful substance use," Luke Bergmann, PhD, director of County of San Diego Behavioral Health Services said. "Recognizing symptoms is the first step toward improving mental well-being during this time of year."

Tips for the holiday season include:

  • Establish realistic goals and expectations

  • Set a spending limit and stick to it

  • Limit consumption of alcoholic beverages

  • Make plans with others and spend time with people who are supportive and caring

  • Look for opportunities to express kindness by volunteering at a shelter, meal delivery service or senior center

  • Eat healthy, exercise regularly and try to laugh; laughing is a great aerobic exercise

While the holidays can feel overwhelming, getting back to your normal routine also helps keep these difficult feelings at bay. As the holidays subside, these feelings may dwindle for some.

If these feelings linger or interfere with your daily life, you may need to reach out to your primary care physician or a mental health professional. Look for these signs:

  • Loss of interest in activities that used to bring you joy

  • Eating more or less than usual, or gaining or losing weight

  • Having trouble sleeping, or sleeping more than usual

  • Feeling slow or restless

  • Feeling hopeless, helpless, or inadequate

  • Having difficulty concentrating, thinking clearly or making decisions

  • Persistent thoughts of death or suicide

  • Withdrawal from others

For more information and mental health resources visit www.up2sd.org. If you are experiencing a mental health, suicide or substance use crisis please call 988 or the Access and Crisis Line 1-888-724-7240.

In addition, the County offers employees free confidential counseling and referral services through an Employee Assistance Program. Learn more about our EAP.