Christmas carols, decorations and holiday movies are meant to spark feelings of warmth and seasonal cheer.
But for some people, this time of year can increase feelings of loneliness and sadness.
"It's a challenge time for people, all of us, but especially those who have depression," says Dr. Richard Earle from the Canadian Institute of Stress.
Financial stress, family disputes and social pressures can all lead to the holiday blues.
"The very first thing is to recognize a pattern," says Earle.
Those signs include:
- Not being able to concentrate
- Not sleeping properly
- Suffering from aches and pains
- And not taking pleasure in what you used to
To combat these blues, Dr. Earle says you need to let go of unrealistic expectations.
"When our picture of what a really good Christmas would look like is kind of fuzzy or vague we gravitate towards these gigantic oversized completely impossible images, like Martha Stewart," he says.
Instead, think in concrete terms.
"Not 17 types of cookies, but the one type of cookie that my family really loves," he says. "Becoming really clear about what a good Christmas would look like."
When it comes to financial stress, think of gifts with meaning that are not expensive.
"I think getting creative about how you use the money you have, setting a limit and also making sure that you build in small expenditure for yourself, that you actually treat yourself," says Earle.
If you aren't sharing the holiday with family or friends, you may want to get involved in the community - like helping out at a food or toy drive or volunteering to feed the homeless.
"Too often we assume that everybody has a happier more story book life than we do and frankly that is not true."
And if the holiday blues persist, see a health care professional.
"Sit down for just a ten minute discussion," says Earle. "Get it out on the table. They'll help you formulate a plan."
