Why Holidays Can Be More Difficult For Some - December Newsletter of Siyan CCBHC

Psychological Impact of Holidays

The holiday season is usually perceived as a time of joy and celebration. But for some people, it’s also a time when feelings of stress, sadness, or loneliness might be stronger. This period is especially challenging for those who struggle with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders. In fact, 64% of people with mental health disorders report feeling worse during this time, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

This December, we’d like to point out that it's normal not to feel festive during this time. Seeking support, whether through friends, family, or professional help, is a healthy and necessary step to cope with the negative psychological impact of holidays.

Mental Health Statistics During Oct-Dec

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 9 in 10 (89%) of U.S. adults experience increased stress during the holiday season.
The number of calls to suicide hotlines increases by 20% during the holiday season (SAMSHA).
68% of people consider holidays financially distressing, 66% have experienced loneliness during holidays, 63% feel too much pressure and 57% have faced unrealistic expectations (NAMI).

What are the Sources of Holiday Stress?

Pressure to Meet Social Expectations

The holidays often come with the expectation to socialize, host, or attend events. This is particularly challenging for those who are socially anxious or struggling with mental health issues. The pressure to appear happy and sociable leads to frustration and resentment.

Increased Financial Burden

Gifts, travel, food, and decorations are common additional expenses during holidays. This financial burden is stressful for people who are already managing tight budgets. The societal expectation to participate in gift-giving traditions might cause anxiety and stress.

Overwhelming Commitments

The festive season typically involves a range of activities, such as social events, parties, shopping, cooking, and other activities. Balancing these additional commitments with regular responsibilities often becomes overwhelming.

Lack of Sunlight

The shorter, darker days of winter can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder — a type of depression related to changes in seasons. For those already dealing with mental health conditions, the holiday season can worsen their symptoms.

Changes in Routine

The holiday season often disrupts normal routines, which can impact both mental and physical health. Those who rely on a regular schedule to manage their mental health find these changes particularly challenging.

Coping Strategies and Support

Here are some strategies to support your mental health during the holidays and get into the Christmas spirit:

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It's okay to feel a range of emotions during the holidays. Recognize and accept your feelings, whether they're joy, sadness, or something in between.

Set Realistic Expectations

A holiday doesn’t have to be perfect. It's normal for plans to change and it's okay if things don't go exactly as you planned. Your expectations should be clear to others as well — don’t be afraid to say no to events or activities that are too stressful or outside your comfort zone.

Have a Plan for Stressful Times

Get prepared to cope with stress during the holidays. Your plan might include activities that bring you comfort, such as reading, listening to music, taking a walk, or even cooking yourself a delicious Christmas dinner. Having a plan will help you feel in control and make this period easier to handle.

Connect with Loved Ones

If you share your thoughts and feelings with friends, family, or support groups, you’ll understand that you're not the only one who has to deal with these negative experiences. But if you find it challenging to open up to loved ones, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Help is Here

This holiday season, remember that Siyan Clinical Research is here for you. We understand the challenges these months can bring, and our team is dedicated to offering support and understanding.

Reach out to us - whether for a conversation, guidance, or professional assistance. Together, we can make the holidays a period of true connection and support.

Announcements

This monthly Recovery Newsletter is now a part of our new endeavor to become a Certified Community Behavioral Health Program (CCBHC), funded by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Topics will range from addressing managing mental health as well as substance abuse. To learn more about Siyan becoming a CCBHC, please visit: https://siyanresearch.org/CCBHC/

NEW September 2023 - Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Siyan Care

If you or a loved one are seeking support on the path to recovery, we are here to help. There are times when individuals are faced with crises or an increase in psychiatric symptoms and hospitalization is not necessary or no longer required, but outpatient services such as weekly or biweekly therapy appointments are not sufficient to meet the individual’s needs.

In these situations, Siyan Care offers IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) levels of care. IOP is appropriate as a step up when other therapy and psychiatric support services are not sufficient in managing symptoms or providing needed structure and support. IOP meets 3 days per week for 3 hours per day of group therapy, with 1:1 counseling sessions and monthly psychiatry appointments for medication management. To learn more about Siyan Care, please visit: https://siyanclinical.com/intensive-outpatient-program-iop/

If you or someone you love would like to schedule an evaluation to see whether you are a fit for the CCBHC program, please contact us at 707-206-7268 or email psychresearch@siyanclinical.com to enroll. We are accepting new patients and accept most insurances including Medi-Cal and Medicare for our CCBHC program.

Every conversation is confidential and we offer telehealth. One day at a time.

Sincerely,

The CCBHC Team

Disclaimer: This product was supported [in part] by grant number H79SM086652 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the views or polices of SAMHSA or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

SIYAN CLINICAL RESEARCH | [CCBHC]