During the holidays, mental disorders are often aggravated. Even people who are mentally healthy can experience a worsening mental state. Why does this happen, and how can you prevent it?
Dr. Viačaslaŭ
Dispelling the myth
The concept of "holiday depression" is not singled out by psychiatrists as a separate category and is different from seasonal affective disorder. It is a specific condition called moping, or the "holiday blues," which is expressed by feelings of apathy and despondency. Other symptoms of the "blues" include:
- Eating disorders and cravings for alcohol
- Sleep disturbances and poor concentration
- Irritable or depressed moods
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Feelings of constant fatigue
- Tension and anxiety
- Reluctance to go out and do the things one loves to do
This moping usually begins before the holidays and ends after them. This is a fundamental difference from seasonal depression, which lasts several months and has similar but more severe symptoms.
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