The holidays should be a happy time of celebrating, but for those who are struggling with depression, it can be a time of year when they feel especially low. This can be because of the change in weather in colder climates, the lack of sun and daylight in the winter months, associating the time of year with something sad in their life like a death, or not having people to share the holiday with. Not to mention the pressure in our society to spend money this time of year and the expectations of gift-giving. Treatment is available, and The Arbor is here to help you with finding a depression treatment program in Texas.
Depression and the Holidays
Depression affects each person differently, and a number of factors can play a part. Genetics, other medical conditions, addiction, past traumas, and more can affect someone’s mental health and contribute to their depression.
Some common factors that can cause seasonal depression—such as during the holidays—include:
- General stress from work, school, family, or life responsibilities
- Money troubles
- Not sleeping
- Taking on too much
- Being alone
- Substance use
- Eating disorders
- Lack of daylight
- Weather
With all of the “holiday cheer” being promoted at this time of the year, it is hard to deal with the fact that you are not feeling excited about the season. Guilt can set in and further exacerbate one’s depression. The reality is that many people are struggling, but help is available to anyone who needs it. Reach out to a trusted medical professional or family member to help you find a treatment program that works for you and your unique needs.
Effects of Loneliness on the Holidays
Loneliness is one of the most common forms of depression during the holidays. It can exist alongside other depressive symptoms, like stress or anxiety.
Depression and loneliness during the holidays can cause:
- Feelings of exhaustion
- Trouble concentrating
- Lack of decision-making
- Constant distraction
- Anxiety
- Isolation
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- No desire to participate in activities, social or otherwise
- Changes in eating habits
- Abuse of drugs or alcohol
- Unnecessary guilt
- Unwarranted feelings of anger
In some cases, depression and the holidays can be managed with minor lifestyle changes, regular therapy sessions, and sometimes medication. But if depression is more severe, more intensive residential or intensive outpatient treatment may be needed, especially if coupled with a co-occurring substance use disorder.
If a residential depression treatment program is selected as the best option, you can receive added levels of care and monitoring in a comfortable environment that is like a home away from home. It provides hospital-level care in a more inviting format. For those whose depression borders on being suicidal, an inpatient program will provide the safest option. Preventing a relapse is the key to any treatment program. Therapies will help clients get to the root cause of their depression and loneliness and develop tools and coping techniques that they can utilize in day-to-day life once they leave a treatment facility. If medication is needed, it can be closely monitored by medical professionals so that there is no risk of misuse.
The Arbor – Enroll in Depression Treatment to Enjoy the Holidays
In addition to behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications prescribed by a medical team, there are a number of ways to treat depression. A variety of therapies are offered through both inpatient and outpatient programs at The Arbor. It is all part of a holistic approach to treatment.
Therapies can include:
- Psychotherapy
- Group therapy
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
- Light therapy
- Nutrition counseling
- Experiential therapies like art or equine therapy
Call 844.413.2690 or contact The Arbor online to learn more today.