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Mental Health and the Holiday Season. By Our Student Pharmacist, Andrew Myers.

image 4The temperature is dropping, snow is falling, and lights, lights are everywhere.  The holiday season is upon us and with it comes the gathering of family and friends, meals to be shared, flannel, and fires burning in fireplaces. For some, the holiday season is a joyous time of the year, but that is not the case for everyone. Mental illnesses can be very hard to deal with during the winter festivities for multiple reasons.

Major depressive disorder, or MDD, can be triggered by seasonal patterns, like lack of sunlight due to our days being shorter.  This known connection can impact many people each year and when our days get shorter and shorter, the condition gets worse.  A few ways to counter this would be to take a walk during the day when sunlight is out, even if it means bundling up. Other methods to improve mood may be to open up blinds and shades to let in sunlight during daytime hours or to make sure to have lights on during the evening hours.

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Another correlation between the holiday season and anxiety is increased stress caused by a variety of reasons. Many people are tight financially during the holiday season due to gift giving, increased travel, and other festivity related expenses.  The increased financial demand during the final months of the year can cause excess worry, when the holidays are supposed to be about spending time with loved ones.  Keep in mind, that the holiday season should be about making memories with loved ones, not about gifts.

Often, the majority of people travel during the holiday season to connect with distant family. As we in Ohio know all too well, that means driving on icy roads with snow falling. Who hasn’t gotten a hand cramp from gripping the steering wheel so tightly during the winter? This increased stress, as mentioned above, can trigger episodes of anxiety.  Stay safe on the roads.  A four-wheel drive car doesn’t brake any better in the snow, it just means you can pull out of your driveway easier.  Nor do snowy roads mean you can only drive five MPH.  Give yourself extra time, keep yourself at a safe speed (typically 10 miles or more under the speed limit), and make it to your destination safely. No one wants to lose loved ones due to accidents.

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Another aspect of the holiday season that can impact mental health is alcohol use. Most festivities can include alcohol, and, while in small, controlled doses it seems harmless, even slight alcohol consumption can increase levels of depression and anxiety. Alcohol is a depressant and should be consumed responsibly, which sometimes means not at all, especially when you are driving.

Do not let the holidays get you down. Remember that you are surrounded by people who care about you and want the best for you. Reflect and be thankful. And if you are struggling, please do not be silent.  At Happy Druggist Pharmacy, we care about you. We are one of many outlets to make sure you are your best self. Please reach out to us if you want to discuss your mental well being.

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