Is it normal to be depressed after christmas

Today, we are scrolling and swiping through desperate requests from people in need of relief resources for their loved ones.

While social media has mobilised help in a way our infrastructure was unable to, and many could find the aid they needed in critical times, what was once an escape from reality is now an overwhelming source of information and distressing news. That—combined with our altered social, professional and academic lives—has given way to emotional upheaval for everyone.

Whether or not we've been personally affected by the disease, many of us are struggling with feelings of grief, anxiety, low moods, numbness or panic, or are unable to focus or be productive. Talking to a mental professional can help you find the tools to manage your distress, or at the very least, give you an open, non-judgemental space to talk about your concerns. Ahead, we've curated a verified list of organisations pan-India that are offering telephonic as well as online counselling , that could come in handy if you or someone you know is seeking mental health help.

Many of the resources on this list are free-of-cost or available for a minimal fee, for people for whom cost might be a barrier. One of India's most sought-after institutions for mental health and neuroscience education, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, is offering free psychosocial support and mental health services to people experiencing stress, anxiety, fear or any kind of emotional discomfort during the pandemic.

A team of professional psychologists and psychiatrists is available to help Indian residents 24 hours a day, through a toll-free number. Visit: Nimhans. Taking care of an ailing family member, dealing with someone's demise or just being homebound and witnessing the current state of affairs can impact your mental health. But Peak Mind believes that making your emotions work for you rather than against you is key to successfully passing through the choppy waters.

Schedule your first session with Peak Mind to talk to a mentor trained in your counselling topic. Each session is usually priced at Rs 1,, but the service has been heavily subsidised right now given the need.

Visit: Peakmind. Therapize India asked therapy speakers about the barriers to accessing mental healthcare today, and 40 per cent of them claimed that "affordability and a lack of transparency around therapy fees is a big hurdle". You get access to four sessions for Rs , starting next month.

Visit: Therapizeindia. A crisis intervention centre for people experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts , Sumaitri offers telephonic counselling conducted by trained volunteers, seven days a week, from 2 pm to pm.

Visit: Sumaitri. In collaboration with the Maharashtra Government and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation BMC , Mpower has launched a toll-free mental health support helpline at the onset of the pandemic in Depression may occur at any time of the year, but the stress and anxiety during the months of November and December may cause even those who are usually content to experience loneliness and a lack of fulfillment.

Some people may have a small social circle or a lack opportunities for socialization. People who have feelings of disconnectedness often avoid social interactions at holiday time.

Unfortunately, withdrawing often makes the feelings of loneliness and symptoms of depression worse. One of the best ways to deal with social isolation is to reach out to friends or family for support. You can also try talking to a therapist. They can help you figure out where your feelings come from and develop solutions to overcome them.

Some people may be keenly aware of the loss of a loved one during the holiday season. Here are several ways to stave off the holiday blues that may descend at this time:. Going for a walk in the park or the woods helps many people relax and feel better when they are feeling overwhelmed. Major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern is a type of recurrent depression that is caused by the seasons changing. Many people with this disorder develop depression symptoms during the fall, and continue to feel sad throughout the winter.

Most people stop having symptoms during the spring and summer. However, some people experience seasonal depression during the spring and summer. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling sad for long periods of time. They can refer you to a mental health specialist. If your feelings of sadness during the holidays are accompanied by suicidal thoughts, do one of the following immediately:.

You can improve your mood by practicing self-care during the holidays. Eat a healthy diet, and maintain a regular sleep pattern and exercise program. If being one of those who looks at the world through mud-covered glasses has never worked for you, why continue it? Take charge of your life and your mood by doing any number of the ideas listed above and adding some of your own. Still grieving the holidays? Wait a week or two. The stores will be filling up with Valentine decorations and candy.

If you've heard of unipolar depression you may wonder how it's different from regular depression or bipolar depression. Here's what you need to know.

Antidepressants have been used for many years to help manage symptoms of depression. But they may not work for every person. Newer ones may help meet…. Living with depression can be overwhelming, but there may be positive aspects of the condition. When you constantly prioritize the needs of others above your own, it's not uncommon to experience feelings of depression.

But there are ways to…. Is it true that the world looks gray when you are depressed? Science may back up the sense that colors are connected to mood.

Depression can affect your cognition and impact your daily life. Learning how the cognitive symptoms of depression affect you can help you cope. Baby blues and postpartum depression share similar symptoms and causes, but postpartum depression lasts up to a year and is more severe. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors MAOIs were the first ever class of antidepressant, though in modern days, they're used infrequently due to side effects. The decision to stop taking an antidepressant is complex and difficult to make.

But with the right information and support, you can make the best…. Podcast: Holiday Survival Tips and Tricks. Can Depression be Good for You?