Holiday Depression?
Some people have a seasonal pattern depression disorder that begins to occur in the fall and last throughout winter. Once the seasons change to spring and summer, they come out of their depression state. You might be surprised how many people are depressed right now.
Depression is very common during this time of year. People shut down for many reason; Social Isolation, grieving a loved one or loved ones, that are no longer living or active in one’s life like a break up or move, lack of finances to engage in the traditional “holiday spirit”, another is not achieving a goal by a certain time.
I’m sure there are so many more reasons, however I can say I have experienced at least one of the above. Depression is a common mood disorder that should not be taken lightly. I mentioned in my personal memoir Right Hand To the Champ: 13 lessons that changed my LIFE, my experience with seeing a therapist. How I was actually going through something and I didn’t even recognize it. Sometimes your thoughts get tangled up and blurs your vision and you need to speak with someone who has a fresh pair of ears to listen and help you untangle your thoughts so you can think and see clearly. I’m not ashamed of that. In fact, I am proud I took that step and I encourage others that may be having issues to do the same.
I was told by a psychiatrist, that even psychiatrist need to speak to a psychiatrist sometimes- it is healthy living. It totally makes sense. Most people should see a dentist at least twice a year even if their teeth appear healthy. People make annual appointments for physicals even when they feel well. Why wouldn’t you go see a therapist for a well- check? During my visits, I realized that what I thought I was going for wasn’t the foundation of what I was going through, which again is common. Think about how many times you have went to the doctor for a specific symptom and found out that was just a side effect of the real problem.
If you or a loved one is experiencing holiday depression for whatever reason you are not alone.
In 2015 studies show that 16 million adults had a major depressive episode. I know this because I was one of them. That’s 6.9 percent of the population. Over 300 million people in the entire world suffer from depression. Depression is the leading cause of disabilities. Unfortunately, suicide is the tenth leading cause of death for Americans and many times depression leads to suicide. Don’t take this lightly, if you can reach out to someone this holiday season extend your hand or heart and lets decrease these numbers of depression.
There are support groups available 24/7 visit Silence The Shame or call 1.800.273.8255
Tasha Robinson-White