University News Last updated 11 December 2018
Kim Moore, Senior Lecturer in Mental Health Nursing at Birmingham City University, discusses depression at Christmas and what steps can be taken to help reduce it.
Depression at Christmas
In the UK, 20 per cent of adolescents may experience a mental health problem in any given year1 and in 2014, nearly 20 per cent of people in the UK aged 16 and over showed symptoms of anxiety and depression2. The pressure to have a ‘merry’ Christmas can highlight feelings of depression, as people become more aware that they aren’t feeling happy but ‘should’ be.
It can be easy to become stressed, anxious or depressed in the lead up to and during the Christmas period as we put so much effort and investment into one day. Although we all imagine harmonious family gatherings, sometimes big get-togethers can lead to arguments and frustration. Getting caught up in the Christmas rush and feeling like we are running out of time can make us feel increasingly anxious.
The pressure to find the perfect gift, finding presents that better last year’s and sticking to a budget is not only stressful, it can cause significant anxiety and through our exhaustion, feelings of depression.
So what can you do to reduce the impact of depression on your Christmas?
Budget and plan
Budgeting and planning your spending is key. Out of control present buying creates a huge stressor and whilst it can be hard to control your spending, decide on a budget; being realistic about what you can afford and sticking to this is important.
Buying gifts throughout the year can help spread the cost, whilst others might make many of their gifts. Wherever your skills lie, there will always be a way of giving to others without spending money you might not have.
A family affair
Although we all picture the perfect family gathering, spending time with family can be a big stressor at Christmas. Families are complicated and messy, and can trigger unhappy memories, disputes or feel monotonous.
Learn to say no and be aware of the commitments you are making to others – will you enjoy the event or do you feel obliged? Events that we don’t enjoy or have no time to enjoy can create feelings of stress, so ask yourself before you make any commitment – ‘will this make me feel good or add to my stress?’
Cooking up trouble
If, like me, you are the main chef in the house, cooking Christmas dinner can be stressful. But there are lots of dishes you can prepare in advance and great advice that can be found on cooking websites, books and TV programmes. If you’re cooking for a gathering, why not ask each guest to bring a dish for the table? You’ll end up with a delicious array of food without having to prepare it all yourself, and you’ll know that there will definitely be something everyone likes!
Make it social
Unfortunately some people do find themselves alone at Christmas. Perhaps they have lost contact with family, or are living abroad. Being alone at Christmas, a time which we are taught is for being together, can contribute to feelings of depression. But whatever your circumstances, there are many ways to make Christmas social.
There are always charities, soup kitchens and shelters who are grateful for extra help over the festive period, and not only does this give you an opportunity to spend the day with others, you’ll get an extra boost from volunteering and helping others.
Try not to overindulge
Often, the festive season involves drinking more alcohol than we would normally. Alcohol can enhance feelings of low mood, depression and anxiety.
Space out your drinks and consider trying ‘mocktails’. Alcohol free drinks can be just as satisfying and sociable as their alcoholic equivalents.
Take care of yourself
If you are vulnerable at this time of year and know that you may have a low mood or experience symptoms of depression then give some consideration to any trigger or risk factors that might affect you. Know where you can get help and keep these visible and accessible – use them when you need to. There are health apps you can link to your phone and no matter what your age is there are online and telephone supports available to you during this time.
Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness have the biggest impacts, so don’t be afraid to ask someone if they are OK. If you are not coping and need support, don’t hesitate in asking for help and these resources are available to you throughout the year, but especially during what can be one of the most difficult times of the year.
Where to find help
SANEline is a telephone crisis line for anyone from 15 years and older. There is no charge for calls and they are open every day from 4.30pm until 10.30pm on 0300 304 700.
MIND has a variety of supports available for all ages including the online community at elefriends where peer support is available and general guidance and advice on the main web page.
The Samaritans 24 hour help line for crisis can be contacted by phoning 116 123. It is free, confidential and accessible.
NHS services are working over the Christmas break, so if you need to see someone, think about contacting local services including your GP practice, on-call GPs or the NHS 111 helpline for advice, guidance and directions. If you are in need of urgent help, you can attend your local A&E department or if you have a mental health team supporting you a Christmas action plan and support will be available.
References
1 Evans, J., Macrory, I., & Randall, C. (2016). Measuring national wellbeing: Life in the UK; 2016.
2 WHO (2003). Caring for children and adolescents with mental disorders: Setting WHO directions. [online] Geneva: World Health Organisation.