As the days get shorter and holiday bills grow, therapists in Hampton Roads report that more people are feeling overwhelmed. They say a mix of less sunlight and money worries is making seasonal depression worse this year.
Therapists across the region are noticing more patients struggling with stress. They believe that the drop in daylight combined with ongoing financial problems and holiday pressure to spend is causing a lot of emotional strain.
Dariya Biarozkina, a licensed counselor with Thriveworks, explains that depression often comes from pressure. This fall, she has seen many clients feel stressed by money problems like rent and job issues. These problems affect people’s moods deeply, not just their wallets.
While winter usually brings a rise in seasonal depression as days grow darker, this year costs and inflation are making symptoms worse. Biarozkina says these financial worries not only add to seasonal depression but also regular depression.
Many people know the usual ways to cope like exercise, maintaining routines, socializing, or using light therapy lamps. But Biarozkina says the problem is that many cannot use these tools. People working multiple jobs may not have time or energy for these strategies.
When faced with tough choices like buying food versus paying bills, coping skills take a backseat. “People think about survival, not strategies,” she explains.
The holidays bring more stress, too. Some fear judgment if they cannot afford gifts, especially when family values gift-giving. Parents often feel guilty if they cannot pay for presents or school needs. For some, financial struggles don’t just make depression worse—they cause it.
Biarozkina also says shame is a big burden. Many grew up thinking financial trouble means failure, but that is not true. Even hard-working, educated people can struggle financially. This pressure can feel especially heavy for men, who may feel they must be the main provider, even though one income is rarely enough today.
She advises focusing on what people can control. This includes being honest about finances with friends and family, finding free social activities, prioritizing rest, using light therapy if possible, spending time outside, and seeking connection.
Resting without guilt is important because good sleep and time with loved ones act like medicine for the mind. Helping others in small ways can also boost feelings of connection and reduce loneliness.
Biarozkina emphasizes that feeling down due to seasonal depression and financial stress is common and not a personal failure. She urges people not to isolate or give up, and to reach out to trusted friends or professionals for help.
If you or someone you know needs support, there are local crisis hotlines and mental health services available in Hampton Roads.
Related topics:
Bay Area Program Links Seniors With Free Mental Health Therapist Support
Mental Health Rehab Support Vital as Workplaces Navigate Christmas Pressures
Missing Wisconsin Woman Escapes Mental Health Facility, Cuts Monitoring
