• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) often causes depression symptoms during the cold winter months due to reduced daylight.
• Grief during the holidays can trigger situational depression, especially for those who have recently lost a loved one.
• Counseling offers a safe space to process both seasonal and situational depression, promoting emotional healing.
• Rock Your Family provides telehealth and in-person counseling services to support individuals in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas.
• Christian counseling integrates faith and emotional support to help those struggling with depression during the holiday season.

The holiday season, while joyful for many, can be especially difficult for others. Depression often intensifies during this time, whether it’s triggered by seasonal changes or the pain of grieving a loved one. So what does depression look like to others? Understanding the different forms of depression can help individuals recognize when they need extra support and guidance.

What is Seasonal Depression?

Seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that typically occurs during the colder months when daylight hours are shorter. Individuals may experience symptoms such as low energy, irritability, difficulty with concentrating, and changes in sleep or eating habits. These mental depression symptoms are closely tied to the change in seasons and can have a significant impact on daily life. According to the Mayo Clinic, this form of depression can worsen as the holidays approach, with feelings of sadness or isolation becoming more pronounced.

Grief and Loss During the Holidays

For those who have recently lost a loved one, the holidays can be a painful reminder of their absence. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) notes that grief can lead to situational depression, with symptoms like sadness, hopelessness, and emotional numbness. Coping with grief during the holidays often requires acknowledging the loss while finding ways to honor the memory of loved ones.

How Counseling Can Help

If you’re experiencing mental depression symptoms due to seasonal changes or grief, counseling can offer a safe space to process these emotions. Christian counseling provides spiritual and emotional support, helping individuals find hope and healing. At Rock Your Family, we offer both telehealth and in-person counseling services for those in Colorado Springs and surrounding cities, providing the flexibility to meet your mental health needs wherever you are on your journey.