For most, holidays are a time of joy. However, for some the holidays can be difficult.
The Holiday Blues are basically an emotional response to a variety of things that occur at holiday times. Things like extra spending, physical or emotional distance from family, old memories, awareness of aging or old conflicts. On top of that, we generally, during the holidays do a poor job eating, sleeping, and exercising, which can contribute to the blues.
What can you do? Well here are some things you can do to manage your own blues as well as help others out.

What you can do to manage the blues

1. Establish realistic goals and expectations for the holiday season, and do not label the holiday season as a time to cure all past problems.

2. Do not feel obliged to feel festive all of the time. If you have recently experienced a tragedy, death, or romantic break-up, tell people about your needs.

3. Try to plan some activities that you enjoy, and contact friends and family members with whom you want to spend time.

4. Take care of your health, get plenty of sleep, eat nutritiously, and stay physically active. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. .

What you can do to help someone else with the holiday blues:
1. Try to involve that person in holiday activities, but don't be forceful.
2. Check in phone calls and visits, no matter how brief, help everyone stay connected.
3. Be a good listener. Sometimes just listening without offering advice can go a long way.

4. Be aware that holidays can be difficult for a number of people If a friend or family member is down, explain to him or her that you are concerned and why. Ask how you can help before you offer advice.

What if it is more than the blues?

In most cases the holiday blues come and go and overall are short lived. However for some individuals the holidays can bring on a more serious condition; Major Depressive Disorder. If you or some one you know doesn’t seem able to shake the blues after two of weeks then look for 5 or more of or these symptoms.

Symptoms of Depression

Feeling sad or blue most of the day*
Disturbed sleep (sleeping too much or too little)
Changes in appetite (weight loss or gain)
Irritability and intolerance
Loss of interest or pleasure
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulties with concentration or decision making
Marked restlessness or slow movement
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

If five or more of these symptoms are there for more than 2 weeks then it is very important that you contact your physician or a mental health professional. Depression is a very serious but manageable condition.