What Are the Causes of Holiday Depression

It seems ironic that the holidays would be a common time for depression, and yet, many people get hit with it during the most "wonderful time of the year." The causes for holiday depression are as varied as the individuals experiencing it.

Family Problems

• Although family problems can cause depression at other points throughout the year, the holiday season can amplify it. The holidays are typically seen as a time for family and friends. For those who have no family, or have a family system that is unsafe and abusive, the loss becomes more noticeable during the holiday season. The enormity of the loss can result in grief that leads to depression.

Stress

• Another cause of holiday depression is stress. The holidays are supposed to be a joyful time, and yet, they also cause a lot of stress. There are presents to buy and wrap, cookies to be made and parties that need to be attended. The demands and expectations of the season can strip the joy away and cause depression.

Financial problems

• Financial problems are a stressor all year long. However, at holiday time, they become an even bigger burden and can contribute to holiday depression. Guilt may set in, as financial struggles influence how much holiday spending can-- or cannot--take place. Other times, stress sets in because there are holiday expectations to live up to, such as traveling to see family, and each obligation takes money to fulfill.

Loneliness

• The elderly experience depression at holiday time as a result of feeling neglected or lonely. This is especially true of those in nursing homes or those whose children live far away. Elderly people who have lost spouses and friends may also find themselves struggling with depression at this time of year. They remember life as it once was, and may struggle to come to grips with how it is now.

Change in Routine

• The holiday season disrupts the normal routine of life. The kids are on break from school, there are work parties to attend, and more shopping than usual needs to be done. When routines are disrupted, even if it is for the holidays, it can result in sense of chaos and a feeling of being unsettled. This is another contributing cause of holiday depression.

Change in Diet

• As holiday demands increase, family dinners and healthy eating may be neglected. The consumption of sugar and caffeine increases. Though these give a short-term boost, the after-effects of these substances contribute to holiday depression.

Time of Year

• Another cause of holiday depression may be more related to the time of year than to the actual holidays themselves. Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, occurs in the winter time. SAD usually begins in November, which coincides with the official holiday season. SAD occurs due to a lack of sunlight, which causes shifts in brain chemicals and hormone levels.