Problems or emotions repressed during other months often tend to surface during holidays. If there are major episodes of depression and more severe mood disorders, Dr. James says the prognosis could be chronic rather than seasonal, which needs to be treated also by a professional counselor or psychiatrist and involve more long-term care. It is normal for anyone to experience a little unhappiness or frustration during the holidays, said Dr. James. After all, it is an emotional and busy time of the year. The key is knowing how to respond to feelings and having realistic expectations.
Illness manifested by depression can exacerbate symptoms and make things worse.
Anyone who is sick, tends to become sicker when they are depressed, said Dr. James. One simple solution in handling seasonal depression is for parents to talk to their child. Spend a little more time with the youngster and help sort out their day. Let him or her know that they matter. Buying things for them is not always the answer.