On the path towards a life that is fulfilling and optimizes emotional health, it is important that one is aware of mood patterns. The holiday months are often a time when increases in sadness and worry are apparent. The holiday months can be difficult for many people for many reasons. Often the holiday months are difficult due to the combination of shorter daylight hours, the emphasis on social and familial relationships, and fiscal pressures associated with gifting.
The holiday months can be difficult for many people for many reasons.
It is important to notice if this time of year is one that is impacting your mood. Attend to your mood, behavior, and thought patterns for clues that the holiday time or winter months may be contributing to distress. Typical symptoms include difficulty sleeping (more or less sleep than usual), irritability, tearfulness, isolating, ruminative thinking and/or negative thoughts, suicidal thoughts, the replaying of disturbing memories, or expressed concern from family/friends.
These symptoms should not be ignored. Instead, reach out to a trusted friend, make yourself go to a holiday get together, make plans with other people who struggle with the holidays, schedule activities to occupy your time, practice self care, or consider speaking to a license therapist if you are not already connected. It is important to remember that you are not alone, amidst the cheer and celebrating, the holidays can be a very difficult time for many people and often many do not disclose this.
Adaobi Anyeji, Phd
Clinical Psychologist
The Blue Clinic
Specializing in the treatment of sadness, depression, worrying, anxiety
Los Angeles based Private Psychology Practice
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