With The Holidays Comes Dangerous Depression

The holiday season is here, and while it can be a time of joy — in a pandemic, depression and sadness can be significantly worse.

Loneliness, disappointment and uncertainty can lead to seasonal holiday depression or SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder-behavioral health issues that impact many American families during the holiday season.

Light is a big part of this issue. While, SAD is a mood disorder associated with depression it is also related to seasonal variations of light. Symptoms may include depression, anxiety, mood changes, lack sleep, lethargy, overeating, and social disconnects. These "holiday blues” can come from stress, fatigue, overblown expectations, cold weather, financial worry, and an inability to be with family and friends due to Covid. 

To deal with added stress and depression during the holiday season, it is important to know the signs:

• Expectations that are not realistic or manageable,

• Being disconnected or feeling sad or lonely,

• A sense of hopelessness, and constant negativity or even silence.

• Also, excessive drinking or drug use are not only red flags, but can lead to greater depression.

Depression is a risk for suicide. In fact, the spike in holiday suicides tends to come after New Years, not before.

“Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of over 47,500 people. New Hampshire’s suicide rate is the third-highest in the 50 states. A CDC study found that New Hampshire’s rate of suicide from 1999 to 2001 — 13.5 suicides per 100,000 — rose to 20 in 2014-16.”

To help those who may be struggling with SAD, a new NH Coalition for Suicide Prevention has come together this year to enable individuals and organizations to work together toward the goal of zero suicide in New Hampshire.  The group’s new website includes straightforward guidance on understanding suicide risk and provides connections to experts across the state — a big help over the holiday season.