Is it normal to feel depressed around Christmas or the holidays?

Personally, I would love to have a holiday where I don't feel depressed. Depression and its many symptoms can definitely flare during the holidays. I think a major contributor is the difference between expectations and reality. Society bombards us with images of perfect holidays - thoughtful gifts, happy people at chef-created meals, laughter and music. The actual holidays may look very different - bad gifts, mopey teenagers, and passive-aggressive comments passed as easily as the soupy mashed potatoes. If you feel depressed around the holidays, know that you are not alone and, in fact, may be in the majority. It can be helpful to focus on one or two small things that make you feel good. Treat yourself to a special holiday candy and don't share it with anyone. Watch a corny holiday special and laugh out loud. Make the holiday special for you alone.

Everyone is different in their circumstances. Sometimes you just have to ask your self, what about this time makes me feel the way I am feeling. And see how you can get help.

Yes. There is a condition called SAD which tends to affect individuals in the winter. If you need a listener to speak with; there is always at least one available.

No! never consider depression to be a normal state. Start working on it and come out of it as soon as possible. There is much more in life to experience and don't get stopped with depression!

Yes, this is a very common feeling which is often described as 'the winter blues'. Despite it being enjoyable and festive because of Christmas, the days become a lot shorter as it starts getting darker earlier. There is actually a form of depression based on these feelings called Seasonal Affective Disorder. Because of the lack of sunlight, it impacts the brain and makes you feel depressed, unmotivated and/or irritated. It can be tough to deal with, and it is thought that at least 3% of the UK along suffers from seasonal affective disorder. If you are really struggling with these feelings, I recommend seeing your doctor as there are a range of options that can help you stop feeling this way.

I think it is. While you can love seeing all your relatives and friends, it becomes sobering to hear about the great things going on in their lives that might make yours seem less fulfilling. At least that’s how it is for me 🤷‍♀️

Actually, yes! The happiest times of the year (so to speak) can actually make people feel really depressed or sad, mostly because of some happy aspect they cannot experience. Don't hate yourself for it: try to enjoy what you can, and if this is constant I would suggest trying to seek treatment for depression

Yes, it's normal to feel depressed around the holidays for various reason. For some it's the stress of being around family and others it can be feelings on loneliness. Everyone is different and there are many reasons to feel depressed during this time.

There is a lot of excitement during the Christmas holidays. Some people have sad memories during that time. Feeling sad is not uncommon. I hope that you can find someone to talk to. You can always log onto 7 cups. There is always someone to talk to.

No but I am

It is, Alot of the holidays are about family and relationships and this is portrayed by the media and these images enhanced. However although a time that is likely for those without family or struggling to feel more depressed, the majority of the population do not, however that is what we are here for 24/7 every day of the year someone is here for you.

Yes and no. It depends on your situation. People who have lost loved ones by death in that year often have a very hard time at Christmas and many holidays. They feel down and sad - which is so hard because 'everyone' around them is all happy and joyful. There are many other reasons why someone may feel depressed, sad, or alone leading up to, during, and after a holiday. Maybe you really wanted to see a certain relative and they didn't come. Maybe the holiday itself reminds you of something sad. There are lots of reasons. I wouldn't say it's "normal" to feel depressed, but then who decides what normal is? It is under your power to declare if it is normal for you, or to decide you want to change that somehow (perhaps seeing a doctor or meeting with a therapist).

There is always a day when you feel depressed and you don't get to choose when.. So, yes it is normal to be depressed around holidasy..

Yes, the winter weather and holidays can be difficult as there could be many social situations to cope with and emotions are high at special times of the year.

It's more common than you think for people to become depressed around Christmas as its a time we associate with family or spending time with people we are close to, It's important to make sure you're surrounded by friends and family during these times :)

I'd say so, yes. There's nothing weird or abnormal about it; the holidays can be tough. Whether it's because you're alone or you don't feel the same way and feel nostalgic about better days, being depressed around the holidays happens often. I always try not to pin judgment on depression all the time...sometimes, it just happens. You should never let yourself stay there, though...

Yes many people don't get to see their families and it's sad. Just know that people love you. Stay strong

Feeling depressed is a common thing and it can happen to anyone at any time, you just need to know how to deal with it. I would recomend talking to one of our listeners.

Yes it can be. It's seasonal depression. It means certain times of the year cause you to be depressed. I don't know why it happens, you'll have to figure that out yourself

I wouldn't say it's normal but it is like that for many people. Everyone has their own reasons and that's okay.

Honestly, I do, too. I'm not sure why, but it just doesn't sound pleasant to me. I'd rather still be at school, then home all the time.

It's called a seasonal affective disorder, also known as winter depression or winter blues. It happens to a lot of people and there are ways to treat it as well. You can see a doctor for this.

It is completely normal to feel depressed around the holidays. Holidays are really stressful for a lot of people. They disrupt our normal routine, and we may have to see family members who are unsupportive. The winter holidays also happen around the time of the year where we get the least sunlight, which often affects mood as well.

Yes, depression can strike at anytime, there is such thing as seasonal depression. It's when a certain season causes depression.

Yes! It is completely normal! Depression can occur anytime. It is normal but if you feel you need help get the help you can.

Absolutely! in fact thats when I tend to feel most depressed! its the coming of the new year and the reflection of the previous year. Its the concept of leaving this year behind!

It is normal as holidays is a time of the year when most people are pushed to feel happy and joyful. This brings much pressure and anxiety to people ending up feeling sad.

It is very normal. Especially with family drama going on, or even just stressful shopping. One way to reduce those negative feelings around the holidays is to focus on the good that comes out of celebrating. Even if something doesn't go right or something happens, you need to reassure yourself that it's going to be alright and talk to someone.

For me, at least. Being forced to be cheerful and go shopping never helps my mood. Additionally, my family members are...less than accepting of my identity, so being expected to spend time with them is an undesirable thing.

Depression has its own triggers. So to answerthe question, yes it can. But it can be avoided by making sure you are sorrounded by people and things that you like and love.