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How Not to Fall Victim to Holiday Depression

By Simone Scudder
Black College Wire

They say, "tis the season to be jolly," but for many, it's the season to be melancholy. The holiday season can be demanding. Some become overwhelmed by expectations they have set for themselves, or that they feel others have set for them. Fortunately, there are ways not to fall victim to the depression the holidays can cause.

Depression around Christmas time can affect many who have no history of depression or mental illness.

Holiday depression is linked to many factors, including financial strain, loneliness and feelings of having accomplished less than one anticipated. There is also what's called the contagion effect.

According to Jules Harrvell, Howard University professor of psychology, people are more likely to become depressed because they hear about depression in the media. It becomes contagious.

Finances also play a role. Suggestions that one needs to buy a lot of gifts for Christmas put a financial strain on the buyer, who ends up with less money. Depression can set in if one cannot afford to buy gifts one would like.

Other causes could be the lack of the romantic life that one has hoped for, or not having close family members around.

"People have misconceptions about what they should be doing or who they should be with," said Kellina Craig, Howard associate professor of psychology.

"People have inabilities to reach life goals, and this hits home around the holidays," said Harrvell.

According to Harrvell, depression can also occur because "a lot of memories are associated with the holidays." People have loved ones who have passed away.

College students may fall victim to other causes.

"In college, you have so many responsibilities, there is no time for getting into the holiday spirit," says Nia McLean, a senior print journalism major at Howard. "Whatever holiday that you celebrate may get overshadowed by all of the work you have to do."

McLean also believes that many students can be affected by holiday depression because "they may not be able to buy presents, or they may not be able to go home."

Studies on the effects of the environment on people around the holiday season point to seasonal affective disorder, caused by the shorter days and fewer hours of daylight. "There is a need for light stimulation to keep moods in balance," Harrvell said.

Contrary to popular belief, suicide rates actually decline in December. They are at a peak in the months of April, June and July.

Holiday depression can affect anyone caught up in all of the media portrayals of what the holidays are supposed to be about.

"People need to think more spiritually," said Craig. "What Christmas is about gets lost in the media hype."

So, what can be done to prevent or treat holiday depression?

"Try to be of some service to people over the holidays, rather than purchasing mass amounts of gifts," Harrvell suggests.

McLean says that holiday depression can be cured "if people focus more on the spirit of the holidays, like family and togetherness. Be thankful for the blessings you received during the year. Think about what you can do better for the next year."

Simone Scudder is a student at Howard University who writes for The Hilltop.

Posted Dec. 9, 2002