Are there differences between the holiday blues and depression?
“Normal” blues are temporary. Unlike depression, they don’t significantly interfere with quality of life or ability to function. Although clinical depression is not uncommon, it is a treatable medical illness and should never be considered normal. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), about 1 in 10 people — or about 21 million Americans — experience depression each year, and a majority of them respond favorably to treatment. Symptoms include: • Appetite and/or weight changes • Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down” and/or restless energy • Difficulty concentrating, remembering and making decisions • Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, pessimism, guilt and worthlessness • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex • Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain, that do not respond to routine treatment • Persistent sad, anxious, irritable or “empty” mood • Thought
