The Holiday Season’s Impact on Mental Health

CW: Mentions of suicide. 

The holiday season is fast approaching and the “merry” and “cheerful” energy is in full effect in every shop window and commercial on T.V. However, for many, the holiday season isn’t always a joyous time. The impact of the holiday season on mental health often goes unspoken. November and December may mean Christmas trees, menorahs, turkey, and giving thanks, but it also comes with days becoming shorter and daylight savings. Daylight savings time can lead to sleep schedules being impacted and more time spent indoors as it gets darker earlier. Poor sleep hygiene can negatively influence one’s physical and mental health. According to the Columbia University Department of Psychiatry, “…otherwise healthy people can experience increased anxiety and distress levels following poor sleep. Those with mental health disorders are even more likely to experience chronic sleep problems and, in turn, these sleep problems are likely to exacerbate psychiatric symptoms and even increase risk for suicide” (Columbia University, 2022). 

Winter can be seen by some as a time for outdoor activity, however it can also mean more time spent indoors. The cold weather can impact how much time people spend outside doing physical activity. This can be extremely limiting for many as physical activity such as exercise, running, walking, cardio, etc. are often no longer an option due to the icing over of roads and discomfort experienced from strong winds and snow storms. Physical activity helps release feel-good hormones known as endorphins and when this is limited, there can be a negative impact on mental health. 

The holiday season doesn’t just mean cold and gloomy nights, there is also an increased amount of time spent with family members and friends. Although this can be comforting for many individuals, it can also pose a potential risk for mental health distress. Some individuals can be reminded about the loss of family/friends or may find themselves alone on holidays, and complicated family/friend dynamics may become more prominent. These circumstances associated with the holidays can exacerbate mental health issues and increase depression and anxiety symptoms. The increased pressure to be cheerful or happy around family during the holiday season also poses a risk to individuals as people feel forced to conform to the “norm” that is universally portrayed. 

These are only a few of the holiday season’s impacts on mental health and it is important to check in on your loved ones and reach out for support when you need it. Despite all of the mainstream notions that the holiday season is the “happiest time of the year” for people, it is important to stay mindful that this may not be true for everyone. 

If you or anyone you know is struggling with substance use or an emotional crisis, help is available. Text or call 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to speak with a caring counselor 24/7.

Works Cited:

How sleep deprivation impacts mental health. Columbia University Department of Psychiatry. (2022, March 16). columbiapsychiatry.org/news/how-sleep-deprivation-affects-your-mental-health.