Increased Depression Due to Holidays

Does anyone else feel their depression worsen during the holidays? For me, the holidays are extremely difficult because most of my family is either dead or extended relatives who have lost touch. I still have my parents and two brothers, but I rarely see my siblings and I don't really have any friends to celebrate with, so my folks and I don't even attempt to decorate or do anything special anymore. It all just makes me feel sadder and more lonely than usual.

[BlueLizard12]

I can see how that would worsen your depression. Holidays are hard on so many people, for different reasons. I encourage you to maybe try and find your own little tradition, even if it's not festive, or you do it just you. It could be something as simple as reading a favorite book or that one movie. It might help or it might not do anything for you. I know for me I do have a lot of family there yet my depression still worsens because of the ones I have lose, and the traditions along with them.

[Mrspjsmom]

Definitely. My depression is always worse during the holidays. My children are grown and my parents and beloved grandfather "Pop" all passed away years ago. My siblings live nearby but for a number of reasons we don't see each other much. I have scaled way back on decorations. Just a tree and village. This year the village isn't out and the tree only has lights on it. Too much with my back and my husband is unable to help because of his feet. Our outside lights are out. My son helped my husband. I wanted to go through my decorations this year and give some to charity but haven't gotten very far. What has helped this year is a few months ago every time my husband got paid I would spend between $10 and $20 to purchase a few toys. Mostly from the Dollar Tree and Five Below. I am donating the toys. Even though I won't see any children open them it has helped my mood a great deal.

The last few years I have also put together some gifts for my neighbors. They are wonderful about helping me out and watch my dog when I am away.

On Christmas Eve I will be going to my Mother In Laws to celebrate my husband's traditional family celebration. On Christmas Day I will be alone since my own family will be working. But I don't mind. I can stay in my pajamas all day and do whatever I want to.

[RemySue]

Me, me, me! Trying to count my blessings but I really just can't wait until the holidays are over. I also hate the cold and dark which are plentiful this time of year.