Many people have a difficult time over the holidays. This can be especially true for individuals struggling with depression, including those who are diagnosed and those who are not. However, addressing depression over the holidays can be manageable and can ensure that celebrating the holidays is healthy and fun. The key is to focus on one’s well-being first and foremost.
Better Understanding Depression
Depression is one of the most common forms of mental illness affecting people in the U.S. and abroad. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. For some individuals, major depression can result in severe impairments that interfere with or limit one’s ability to carry out major life activities.” Also, “An estimated 21.0 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. This number represented 8.3% of all U.S. adults.”
Depression also comes in many forms. This includes anxiety and depression, seasonal depression, and depression as related to bipolar I and bipolar II disorder. Depression is also very common among people who struggle with addiction.
Better Understanding Mental Illness and Addiction
Co-occurring disorders of addiction and mental illness remain highly prevalent in the U.S. (including depression). According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “7.7 million adults have co-occurring mental and substance use disorders…Of the 20.3 million adults with substance use disorders, 37.9% also had mental illnesses. Among the 42.1 million adults with mental illness, 18.2% also had substance use disorders.”
Many people who struggle with alcohol use disorder (AUD) also struggle with depression. This is because alcohol is actually a depressant. Also, people with active addiction often feel a sense of hopelessness which can also lead to more serious issues of depression.
Addressing Depression: The Signs and the Symptoms
Many people are unaware that they struggle with depression. This is because they are unaware of the signs and symptoms of the illness. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Isolating away from friends and family
- Losing interest in activities and hobbies once enjoyed
- Using alcohol and substances as coping mechanisms
- Feeling overly anxious, nervous, or “stressed out”
- Having trouble with sleep cycles, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough (insomnia)
- Experiencing a loss of appetite
- No longer caring about one’s hygiene or personal appearance
- Exhibiting excessive mood swings
- Committing or thinking about committing self-harm
- Having suicidal ideations
As one can see, these can be very dangerous symptoms. This is why if any, many, or all of these symptoms are present, it is important to reach out for professional help as soon as possible. This should happen no matter what time of year it is, including the holidays.
Addressing Depression Over the Holidays
Many people avoid getting the help they need over the holidays. This is because addressing depression over the holidays can feel like it may take away from the festivities and enjoyment of others.
This is a fallacy. The key to addressing depression over the holidays is to do so as soon as possible. This can best ensure that long-term symptoms don’t manifest. Also, loved ones are going to be thrilled that their loved ones are getting the help that they both deserve and desire.
Addressing Depression With Various Means, Methods, and Modalities
Another key to addressing depression over the holidays is to do so with a multitude of modalities. This can best ensure that a healthy and well-rounded recovery takes place.
This includes utilizing modalities such as psychotherapy, experiential therapy, and holistic healing methods. This includes the very helpful holistic healing method of meditation. Meditation can be a highly effective way to manage the symptoms of depression over the holidays.
Meditation also offers a myriad of other benefits. According to the International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda, (AYU), “Chronic stress reduces telomerase activity and accelerates telomere shortening and premature aging. Meditation and Yoga practices improve telomerase activity and telomere length. A study investigating the effect of meditation on the aging process showed that long-term meditators have a significantly younger biological age compared to short-term meditators and controls.”
Addressing Depression With Lantana Recovery
Here at Lantana Recovery, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why all of our recovery plans have a focus on the future. This includes helping clients navigate the holidays healthily and successfully.
The iconic American poet Walt Whitman famously said, “Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.” No truer is this than over the holidays.
Yes, depression can be debilitating, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to stay present and look forward to the future, and the future is bright at Lantana Recovery.
Depression is highly common over the holidays. However, there are many tips and tools that can provide solace and solutions to those who may struggle with depression during these times of the year. This includes people who struggle with co-occurring depression and addiction. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. There is a solution. For more information about depression and ways to treat it, please reach out to Lantana Recovery today at (866) 997-2870.
