BURLINGTON, N.C. — For some the holidays aren’t so merry and bright.
According to a recent survey, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that approximately 24% of people with a diagnosed mental illness find that the holidays make their condition “a lot” worse and 40% “somewhat” worse.
“It is a joyous time of the year, but it can also bring some stress," Dr. Hiren Umrania, a Cone Health Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist said.
Dr. Umrania says this can lead to anxiety and depression in both kids and adults, but more specifically.
“Families who made under $50,000 felt more stressed regarding financial burdens that comes with gift giving.”
What happens is unmet expectations like a gift you wanted but you didn't get under the tree can make you feel sad or depressed.
Dr. Umrania says if you think your loved one has the holiday blues, here’s how to spot the signs.
He says they'll likely have a depressed mood, lack of pleasure in doing things they enjoy, not being able to focus, and—
“Their family members are more withdrawn or isolated and they may not be eating as much or sleeping in and staying at their home a lot.”
He says kids can show these signs too.
The high prices on the grocery shelves can have you stressed especially if it’s cutting into your budget for Christmas gifts.
Dr. Umrania suggests not to be hard on yourself because you’re not alone the holiday blues affects everyone.
He says you want to focus on what you can control this holiday season.
“And prioritize what is important to you and what brings the joy to you rather than what brings the stress," Dr. Umrania said.
If you feel that you or loved one is battling with the holiday blues, there is help out there. You can contact your county's health resources or click or tap here.
The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States.
MORE WAYS TO GET WFMY NEWS 2
Subscribe to our daily newsletter Let’s Get 2 It!
Download the WFMY News 2 APP from your Apple or Google Play store.
ADD THE WFMY+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WFMY.
Amazon Fire TV: Search for WFMY to find the free app to add to your account. You can also add the app directly to your Fire TV through your Amazon account.