During The Winter Holidays, People Are Particularly Vulnerable To Depression

During The Winter Holidays, People Are Particularly Vulnerable To Depression.
Christmas and other winter holidays are intended to be a contented time of year, which makes it all the more stressful when they are anything but joyous. This is the experience of the year when people are especially vulnerable to depression, Dr Angelos Halaris, a psychiatrist with the Loyola University Health System, said in a university advice release. Shopping and diverting can be stressful, while reflecting on lost loved ones can renew feelings of grief. Add to that the turmoil caused by the second-rate economy. All these things can help depression move ahead a foothold in certain individuals.

What to do? If you're feeling extremely depressed and powerless to function, consult a mental health professional immediately. Danger signs include two or more weeks of temper problems, crying jags, changes in appetite and energy levels, mind-boggling shame or guilt, loss of interest in daily activities, difficulty concentrating and grim thoughts about termination or suicide.

If you feel like your symptoms aren't severe but still make you miserable, Halaris has these suggestions. "Exercise works. Having replenishing relationships matter. Doing things that you win gratifying and fulfilling is helpful, as is attending religious services," Halaris said in the news release. "Getting fertility of sleep and taking care of yourself works. We all have our limits, and learning to live within those limits is important".

Be in the know that depression, exhaustion and lack of interest in life could be a sign of seasonal affective disorder, caused by the need of sunlight. One frequent symptom is a desire for sweets.

And "The most joint type of this mood disorder occurs during the winter months. SAD is thought to be connected to a chemical imbalance in the brain, brought on by lack of light due to winters shorter days and typically clouded skies".

What can you do about SAD? "If at all possible, get outside during winter, even if it is overcast. Expose your eyes to artless light for one hour each day. At home, open the drapes and blinds to let in understandable light. SAD can be effectively treated with light therapy, antidepressant medication and/or psychotherapy".

If you surface the blues because you're lost in grief, Loyola bereavement counselor Nancy Kiel suggests that it's momentous to acknowledge your loss. "Start a new tradition to honor and recognize your loved one. Light a special candle or at dinner, have everyone share a favorite reminiscence or all can take part in a loved ones favorite holiday activity. Do something that would suppose your loved one smile" proextenderusa com. She also suggests that you avoid shopping at the mall - go online as an alternative - and focus on being around people who are caring and supportive.