While many people appear to enjoy the holidays, specifically the time from Thanksgiving until New Year’s, others feel anxiety and depression because of it. With all of the added cheeriness and decorations, people tend to be a bit nicer to each other this time of year. We are playing holiday tunes, exchanging gifts, and seeing family that we don’t see too often. And in some cases, experiencing our first holiday without one of our loved ones. Spending time with family that you don’t see often can be a major source of anxiety for many people. Why is that? For some people, they don’t feel very accomplished in their lives and don’t want to share that with their extended family. While for others, they may not get along with certain family members due to differences in lifestyle choices or even politics, which can cause conflict during the holidays. 

Pressure For Dating/Marriage

Single adults usually have the hardest time during the holidays. Many times they will receive questions from older family members saying “Why are you still single?” or “When will you have kids?” These questions may not seem offensive to them, but to you, they will be. Since they are implying that they don’t agree with the way you are living your life. Being asked why you’re single at 27 and not having kids is a difference in generations. This is a pressure many single adults will feel during the holidays that can make them feel anxious or depressed. 

Realizing You Haven’t Changed Anything

Last Christmas did you promise yourself you would leave the relationship or job that is making you miserable? Yet, now you’re reflecting that another year has gone by of the same frustration and lack of momentum. You are reminded of this by going to holiday parties with the significant other you no longer want to be with. And are asked about the job you swore you would leave before this Christmas. The holidays remind you of all the changes or lack thereof. 

Drinking Worsens Depression

Most people turn to alcohol when feeling particularly distressed about a certain event or continuing source of stress in their life. During the holidays, many parties offer alcoholic refreshments like Eggnog. Having these drinks can lower any social anxiety, but the long-term will make you feel more depressed about what is bothering you. Also, drinking a lot during the holiday season can lead to drinking a lot during the new year. 

A Death In The Family

If this is the first Christmas without Grandma, Grandpa or Uncle Mike, this will give the holidays a depressing undertone. This will happen eventually with every family as people get older and will have to be faced. Instead of spending the day being sad about your loved one not being there, enjoy the day and celebrate their memory. At least the family is still together and being kind to one another. 

The holidays will always be a source of stress will the increased family socialization, buying and giving presents, and the focus of your accomplishments. This is why it is up to you to prevent any triggers that can cause you to feel worse. If you know drinking alcohol heightens your feelings of sadness, avoid alcoholic beverages during this time.