HEALTH MATTERS
DR Ian Hulme, GP at Meadowside Medical Centre, Congleton and NHS Eastern Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) clinical lead for mental health
We’re told that Christmas should be the happiest time of year – an opportunity to be joyful with family, friends and colleagues. Yet, according to the National Institute of Health, Christmas is a time of year when people often get depressed.
Hospitals and police forces report an increase in suicide and attempted suicide while mental health professionals report a rise in patients complaining about depression.
While Seasonal Affective Disorder may be part of the problem, it’s likely that low mood at this time of year has more to do with unrealistic expectations and excessive selfreflection for many people.
Some people get depressed at Christmas because of excessive commercialisation focusing on gifts and ‘perfect’ social activities.
Others get depressed because Christmas appears to be a trigger for excessive self-reflection about the inadequacies of life.
Still others become anxious because of the pressure to spend a lot of money on gifts or because they dread the prospect of social gatherings with family and acquaintances they’d rather not spend time with.
And finally, many people feel lonely at Christmas because they have suffered the loss of loved ones or their jobs.
So what should you do if you’re among those who get depressed at Christmas? Here are some solutions:
First, if the depression is serious, seek the help of a qualified mental health professional
Put limits on the amount spent on gifts and the number of social events
Lower your expectations of the perfect Christmas and enjoy each moment as best you can
Help a charity that supports less fortunate people
Be grateful for what you have, rather than focusing on what you don’t have
Do interesting and fun things
If you are religious, take part in church activities that focus on the bigger meaning of Christmas.
Christmas has become a difficult time for many. For those of us who don’t have difficulties at this time of year, it’s an opportunity to reach out to those who become depressed. For those who are depressed, it’s an opportunity to take action to think, feel and act in ways that break free from the past.