Holiday depression not uncommon, officials say

Nov. 20--The holiday season is typically known as a time for joy and unity between families and friends, but for some, this time of year can have its own set of challenges, including symptoms of depression.

With increased rates of stress during the holidays, the Portales Police Department has historically seen a slight increase in reports of domestic disputes, according to Detective Charlie Smart.

"It's not so much that it's overwhelming, but you will see a slight increase in it," he said, noting that the increase is due to a combination of several factors. "It's because you have a lot of family members in; you have a lot of celebration; the weather's colder, so they're cooped up inside the houses. It's not just the nature of holidays."

According to Eastern New Mexico University Social Work Instructor Stephen Melby, who previously owned a counseling service called Melby Behavior Therapy Services, holiday stress can become abundant due to the disruption of routine.

"We all want to think it's a happy time, and certainly there are many happy moments within it," he said. "However, our routines are upset, and that causes people stress. Whenever stress increases, symptoms of any psychological disorder are more likely to increase, be it depression or not."

Melby noted the distinction between what he called the "holiday blues" -- symptoms of depression that dissipate after routine is re-established -- and Seasonal Affective Disorder, "a moderately common disorder in which the lack of sunlight that's available in winter time has an impact on people psychologically, increasing depression."

SAD, which Melby said required six months of persistent symptoms for an official diagnosis, can generally be identified by a flat effect -- "what we would refer to as melancholy; neither too happy or sad" -- disruption of sleep habits and a persistently negative view of the world.

Melby said he recommends individuals contact a licensed mental health professional if a person sees symptoms of depression persist past the holidays.

"If symptoms are very significant and very persistent, it's always a good default. When in doubt, contact a mental health professional," he said.

To combat "holiday blues," he recommended as much adherence to established routines as possible, including hydration, nutrition, sleep and exercise habits.

"Obviously it's nice to have parties to attend, but when people can resume those normal routines as quickly as they can, they'll find they'll probably feel better," said Melby.

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