The holiday season can be challenging for people vulnerable to depression, but Christmas is not necessarily the mental health threat it is often portrayed to be.
Adam Abba-Aji, a psychiatry professor at the University of Alberta, notes that the so-called “Christmas depression syndrome” was debunked in the 1980s. Researchers analyzing daily suicide rates over nine years found that rates actually decline during the Christmas holidays, with a modest increase afterward. A 2016 study in South Korea produced similar results.
“Many believed depression would increase during the holidays because support systems like friends, family, and therapists become less accessible,” Abba-Aji explains.
Instead of a rise in major depressive episodes, some people experience what clinicians call the “post-holiday blues.” These feelings reflect disappointment or unmet expectations rather than clinical depression.
“Depression involves a continuous low mood regardless of circumstances,” he says. “Post-holiday blues may include decreased energy or motivation, but these usually resolve within a few days without clinical intervention.”
Still, the holidays can be emotionally difficult for those already at risk of mental health issues. Abba-Aji points out that the season often brings up grief or long-standing interpersonal conflicts.
“When social environments emphasize joy and connection, patterns of social withdrawal, emotional isolation, or verbal expressions of worthlessness may signal psychological distress,” he warns. “These behaviors should prompt concern and supportive engagement.”
Practical Steps for Holiday Mental Wellness
Abba-Aji recommends several strategies to reduce mental health stress during the holidays:
Maintain financial boundaries. Excessive spending can create long-term financial strain and worsen mental health symptoms.
Preserve healthy routines. Continuing regular exercise and daily wellness habits supports psychological stability, even amid travel and social commitments.
Moderate alcohol consumption. Alcohol can interfere with psychiatric medications and act as a depressant, potentially worsening mood.
Prioritize self-care. Reaching out to trusted friends, family, or health professionals when feeling overwhelmed can prevent escalation of distress.
By being mindful of routines, boundaries, and support systems, people can navigate the holiday season while protecting their mental wellness.
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