There are things people who are vulnerable to depression should consider as they enter the holiday season, but Christmas isn't necessarily the mental health threat it's often portrayed to be.
According to University of Alberta psychiatry professor Adam Abba-Aji, what used to be called "Christmas depression syndrome" was debunked in the 1980s after researchers examined daily suicide rates over a nine-year period and found rates actually decline during the Christmas holidays, followed by a modest increase afterward. This finding was replicated in South Korea in a similar study in 2016, yielding the same results.
"Up until that point, many believed depression would increase during the holiday seasons because support systems such as friends, family and therapists often become less accessible while people travel or take time off," Abba-Aji explains.
Rather than experiencing an increase in major depressive episodes, people may feel what clinicians describe as the "post-holiday blues." Abba-Aji notes that this isn't so much about clinical depression as it is a reflection of feelings of disappointment or unresolved expectations related to the holidays or events from the preceding year.
"The blues do not meet diagnostic criteria for depression, which involves a pervasive and continuous state of low mood that remains present regardless of associated circumstances," he explains.
"Post-holiday blues tend to involve symptoms such as decreased energy or reduced motivation, and these typically resolve within a few days without the need for clinical intervention."
Nevertheless, the holiday period can be emotionally challenging for some people, particularly for those already at risk of mental health difficulties.
Abba-Aji emphasizes that many people associate the holidays with long-standing interpersonal conflicts or grief over the loss of loved ones.
"In a season where social environments emphasize joy, connectedness and celebration, a noticeable pattern of social withdrawal, emotional isolation or verbal expressions of worthlessness may signal psychological distress," he says. "These changes in behaviour should prompt concern and encourage supportive engagement."
What you can do
Abba-Aji advises some practical measures to reduce vulnerability to mental health stressors during the holidays, including maintaining financial boundaries and preserving healthy routines.
"Excessive spending during the holidays can lead to financial strain that persists long after the season ends," he cautions. "This additional stress may contribute to the worsening of mental health symptoms."
He also encourages people not to abandon their established wellness habits.
"If you have a regular exercise routine or other healthy daily practices, continuing them is essential. Regardless of travel or social commitments, maintaining these routines supports psychological stability."
With social gatherings increasing during the holidays, Abba-Aji cautions against elevating alcohol consumption.
"Alcohol may interfere with the effectiveness of psychiatric medications and acts as a depressant on the central nervous system," he says. "Using it may therefore worsen mood rather than improve it, despite social perceptions to the contrary."
Finally, Abba-Aji underscores the importance of prioritizing self-care during the holiday season.
"If feelings of overwhelm arise, people should not hesitate to reach out to trusted supports or health-care professionals. Early connection can be instrumental in preventing escalation of distress."
Where to find help
If you're feeling depressed, anxious or overwhelmed, help is available from the U of A and other services in Edmonton and Alberta.
Many community supports and services are available by phone or online chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
