7 Ways to Cope with Holiday Depression and Maybe Even Have Some Fun!

‘The holidays.’ Words that suggest relaxation, freedom from work, fun, and celebrations.

Words that are supposed to conjure up happy memories from the past and the desire to create new memories.

So why is it that so many of us dread the holiday season?

Recently, “holiday depression” has become a buzz word in the media.

Clearly, many of us can relate to the concept of holiday depression – depressive moods and thoughts triggered by those ‘wonderful’ holidays.

The holiday season can be very challenging.

The holidays can confront us with a perception that our lives are not good enough.

Encounters with family members in close quarters and quite possibly under the influence of alcohol can make old conflicts erupt.

Here are 7 ways to cope with holiday depression and maybe even have some fun.

1. Coping with holidays alone

Being alone during the holidays carries a terrible stigma. It takes a strong sense of self-worth to stand up to that.

But more and more people are now choosing to spend the holidays alone, rather than spending them with an extended family that can be toxic and therefore dangerous to their mental well-being.

A decision like that is powerful. And it doesn’t have to be forever! So make the most of it this year.

The best way is to create your own holiday celebrations, just for you.

Fill the rooms with flowers. Get out your most loved books and movies. Go to a late night bar or one of those ‘rebel restaurants’ that defy traditional holiday ‘cheer’ and cater to other rebels.

Do something extravagant, something you would not normally do. Because you’re worth it. Be bold and celebrate yourself. This is not second-best. This is best, right here, right now, and you chose it.

Positive thinking is the best antidote to holiday depression.

2. Coping with social isolation

But what if you didn’t choose to be alone during the holidays?

What if circumstances and your life journey have brought you to a point of social isolation?

In this case, spending the days alone may be too difficult.

A good way to cope with social isolation during the holidays, find some congenial company, and have a lot of fun is to volunteer.

Volunteer at a soup kitchen or a hospital.

Spending the holiday taking part in a meaningful activity that helps others starts a new and hopeful dynamic. And you will certainly be far too busy working in a team to fall into a low mood.

3. Coping with isolation shame

Social isolation is considered shameful.

It is seen as “proof” that we are not valuable. To others. To ourselves.

If this is a more or less constant feeling, seek the help of a professional counselor.

As a coping measure, why not leave the country? Not forever, but just for the holiday season. If you can, fly to a country where this time is not a holiday season. Where food, drink and celebration styles are different.

Surround yourself with new, exciting experiences that confirm to you how much fun it can be to be yourself.

If you feel a little unsure that you can pull this off, join a group of travelers.

4. Coping with holidays with others

Statistically speaking, the majority of people who experience holiday depression are those who do have a family to spend them with.

If you are one of these people, and if you feel depressed just thinking about those family gatherings, try to become aware of the worst case scenarios beforehand. Write down what you hope for, and what you fear.

The act of writing it down is already a coping mechanism. You are in charge of what you write. You feel less passive and therefore less depressed.

5. Family and other strangers

When you are actually in the presence of your extended family, have a clear strategy in mind.

Choose before you are chosen.

Associate with the members of your family you actually want to talk to. Choose activities that make you feel good.

And try to look after others. Maybe others who are also in danger of suffering from holiday depression.

Remember that now, as an adult, you have choices.

You can excuse yourself at any time and engage with somebody else. You can leave.

6. Coping with holiday trauma triggers

Unfortunately, if you have traumatic memories from your childhood holiday celebrations, spending this time with your family may mean spending time with those who caused the trauma.

Yes, you may have to put yourself first when you feel that your holiday depression may be triggered

Maybe putting yourself first when you are with your family will feel scary. You may feel that you are not allowed to.

But at the same time, it’s a great opportunity to deal with your holiday depression and create good memories for the future.

7. Coping with depression after the holidays

Even if your holiday experience is enjoyable and life affirming, getting back into your normal routine can also trigger depression.

Your everyday life may seem ‘flat’ and boring.

Create a little bit of a holiday every day. Something to look forward to. Something that celebrates you, and the unique person you are.