Buying the perfect present, baking the perfect pie, making the perfect first impression. Even expecting everyone to be euphoric. When those needs aren't met, it triggers depression. Plus, some people just have difficulty getting through the holiday, with the time and effort and money Christmas can devour. For college students, other factors come into play.
Students have the stress of finals.
They work extra during Christmas break to earn more money for the next semester. Some look back over the semester and wish they could have done better and get bummed out over their grades. Married students must juggle where to spend the holidays. All of these things can be overwhelming. As for married people, Broadbent suggests negotiating family times for Christmas.