Are You Overlooking These Lesser-Known Signs of Depression?

The holiday season is typically associated with joyful feelings and times of togetherness with family and friends. It can also be a time of year when emotions like loneliness, depression, anxiety and grief can intensify and become overwhelming. Today our therapist at Mars & Venus Counseling Center would like to offer a few suggestions to help you navigate this emotional period while prioritizing your mental health and well-being.

• Practice self-compassion and self-acceptance. It’s OK if you aren’t feeling perfectly happy right now. Be patient with yourself.
• Get moving. It’s more important than ever to stay engaged in the activities that relax you and bring you joy. 
• Don’t withdraw; rather, stay connected. Reach out to family and friends, even if it’s just a phone call or video chat. Joining in community events or online forums can help foster new connections. Consider volunteering; becoming involved with helping others can take the focus off yourself, boost your mood and be a fulfilling community activity.
• Keep your expectations realistic and avoid overextending yourself. It’s not necessary to feel pressured into attending every holiday gathering or event. It's okay to say no to some invitations or activities that may make you feel anxious or uncomfortable.
• Practice mindfulness and meditation techniques to focus on the present moment and reduce stress and anxiety. There are a wide variety of useful smartphone apps that can help get you started.
• Consult a therapist. Working with a trained, nonjudgmental mental health professional can provide guidance and support as you learn coping skills to help you through the holiday season and beyond. 

We encourage you to remember that you don’t have to face these feelings alone. It’s especially important to consider seeking professional support during this time, and the experienced therapist Mars & Venus Counseling Center can play a valuable role in helping you navigate the journey to well-being. Please contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.