The holiday spirit is clearly in the air as we approach the end of the year. Some can't wait to celebrate the end of the year in better conditions than the previous year, but there are also those who are depressed as the holiday season approaches.

There are several reasons for this. Some people may be unable to gather with loved ones due to health and security issues, others may be confused about their financial situation, and others may be burdened psychologically to the point where entering the holiday season or seeing other people excited makes us feel sad or resentful.

Depression during the holiday season, also known as the holiday blues, is not uncommon. This feeling is especially strong during times of transition, such as Christmas and New Year's, or Eid, which can make us feel burdened. We appear to feel the need to set a new goal or become a better person than we were before, not to mention the barrage of questions from family and relatives about ourselves and their expectations, and these can cause a lot of stress.

Increased depression is the most common symptom of the holiday blues, and it can happen to anyone. One thing that can be seen is that we are too lazy to do simple things like get out of bed, cook, or leave the house. Other signs of the holiday blues include feeling tired more quickly than usual, losing interest in things or activities that used to make you happy, and difficulty concentrating.

Here are some suggestions for dealing with stress or depression during the holiday season:

Get enough sleep on a regular basis

Try to go to bed at the same time every night. Getting enough sleep and sticking to a regular schedule can help improve our mood and make us feel more ready to move.

Spend time with family and friends

Instead of spending the holidays alone at home and not minding hanging out with other people, this is the time to spend with loved ones, which can include your lover, family, or a group of your closest friends. Spend time with people who make us feel at ease.

Engage in regular exercise

There is a healthy soul in a fit body. Don't give in to laziness because it will only make you feel worse. Walking for 10 minutes while listening to music through earphones can raise your heart rate and produce endorphins, improving your mood.

Say "no"

You may feel bad if you decline invitations to parties or get-togethers, but forcing yourself and overburdening yourself with commitments will only increase your stress and lead to an emotional breakdown. It's time to learn to say "no" and stand firm, as well as make some time for yourself.

Receptive to new traditions

So far, we appear to have a firm grasp of what to do during the holidays. With the pandemic affecting all aspects of life, perhaps it's time to rethink the meaning of holidays and activities. If you're hesitant to get together again, there's nothing wrong with staying at home to celebrate Christmas.

When you are bereaved, seek help

Being left by a loved one and realizing that we will no longer be able to celebrate another holiday with them can be rough. Perhaps we believe that being alone and sad in silence will be easier, but there is nothing wrong with admitting that we need support and companionship from those closest to us, such as family and friends, to process the loss.

Avoid overeating

We will be faced with the temptation of delicious food served or ordering favorite menus at home if the name is a holiday party. Eating too much, on the other hand, is bad for our mood and health in general. Try only to eat what you need.