The holiday season is supposed to be about joy, family, and festivity. It's supposed to feel magical and warm. Right? Why, then, do so many people start feeling stressed, isolated, and sad like clockwork as soon as Thanksgiving and Christmas roll around? What's that about?
Here's what my clients routinely discuss in therapy this time of year:
Their expectations are unrealistic.
Holy moly, this one's big. We can't escape being bombarded daily with images of perfect gatherings, perfect meals, and perfect trees festooned with perfect gifts. It all looks so beautiful and effortless. Spoiler alert, it's not. Those idealized images are far too lofty for what most of us can accomplish, and comparing ourselves to those images makes us feel dissatisfied and inadequate.
Stuff is expensive.
Media scares us about inflation and then breaks for commercials full of gifts, travel, and can't-miss deals. But with so many of us facing financial problems, the pressure to "make the holidays special" can become a huge pain in the account.
Not enough family.
We're supposed to emphasize togetherness and "be happy," says society. But many people are single or far from home and feel isolated or left out. For others, recent bereavement can make holidays feel empty (e.g., "This'll be the first Christmas without Grandma.").
Too much family.
Some people miss their families, other people reeeeeeeally don't. Being made to feel obligated to gather with family when family gives us the "ick" can make a person feel like that pirate in Hook who gets locked in a trunk with scorpions. Remember that guy? Not the happiest bloke on board. [Side note: how awesome is Dustin Hoffman in that movie!? #RIProbinwilliams #RIPmaggiesmith #justiceforrufio] I digress.
Seasonal Affective Disorder.
It's cold. It's dark. Take a look at my post on SAD for more on this.
Everyone's too cheerful.
Being told to "be happy" when we're already struggling with painful memories or unresolved problems only makes it worse. It's especially frustrating when everyone else seems happier than we are. It feels like we're on the outside looking in.
If all that seems like a lot, that's because it is. If you're reading this, you might be dealing with all of it and more, all at once. The good news is that the holiday blues will be over before you know it. In the meantime, try not to numb yourself. Open up, acknowledge how you feel, and talk about it with someone supportive. Take breaks, do less, and maybe go easy on the Christmas cookies and eggnog.
Start Working With a Depression Therapist in Des Plaines, IL
The holiday season doesn't have to be overwhelming. At Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates, PLLC, we are here to help you navigate the stress, loneliness, and depression that this time of year can bring. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
Learn More About Me.
Start making the most of your holiday season!
Other Services Offered with Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates, PLLC
Depression treatment isn't the only service that I offer support with. At Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates, PLLC, I offer a variety of therapy services to support different parts of your life. Beyond EMDR, I provide Anxiety Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Couples Therapy, Self-Esteem counseling, and more. With my extensive experience and specialized training in multiple therapy modalities, I can customize my approach to meet your specific needs. Reach out today to begin your journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
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