Securing Health Equity
Mental health increasingly important for students over the holidays
The holidays can be stressful for some—but making time for self-care can help.
David Hawkins-Jacinto • November 30, 2023
If you’re watching seasonal programming on Netflix or the Hallmark channel this time of year and listening to Mariah Carrey’s “All I Want for Christmas” on repeat, chances are your overall view of the holidays is pretty “merry and bright.”
In the US, the most popular images of the holidays are filled with colorful images of family gatherings, excitement for the New Year, and fun in the wintery outdoors. “For many people, the holidays are hopeful and happy,” says Sherrá Watkins, associate vice president for Student Health and Wellness at the U. “They’re about celebrations and socializing, family and friends.”
But, she quickly adds, that’s not the case for everyone.
For many, the holidays can be lonely and emotionally taxing—and the persistent cheeriness of the season can make the isolation feel even more profound. “Many people who suffer from depression during the holidays ask themselves ‘why do I feel this way? Everyone else is happy, why am I the only one sad?’” she says. It’s actually far more common than we might think.
In a study by the American Psychiatric Association, researchers found that 41% of adults reported elevated levels of stress during the holidays—and 49% of respondents between the ages 18-34 said their stress levels increased. The study also found that concerns about travel, COVID, and missing family members were common themes during this time of year. And although incidents of self-harm usually decrease during the winter months, increased stress due to the holidays can have a negative impact on mood and exacerbate issues for those who struggle with depression and anxiety.
Even those who have sunny personalities at most other times of year can experiences “holiday blues.” Experts say a collection of pressures—including unreachably high expectations, family-related stressors, seasonal affective disorder (heightened by the shortened daylight), and decreased time for self-care can make the holiday season difficult for many people.
“The constant holiday parties, family gatherings—and for some, the challenge of navigating the holidays for the first time without a cherished partner can be quite overwhelming,” Watkins says. That’s why many professionals now suggest making more time for yourself or even creating new traditions and setting realistic expectations. “It’s okay if things are different this year,” she says.
Watkins even suggests planning experiences ahead of time, so you have something to look forward to over the holiday break—a special meal, a favorite hike, or a movie you’ve been looking forward to. Additionally, many experts agree limiting alcohol consumption and social media, as well as maintaining a relatively healthy diet over the holiday season can help protect us from prolonged bouts of depression.
For those needing more support over the holidays—or during final exams—the university offers a number of services, including the University Counseling Center, the Center for Campus Wellness, and for those who need more immediate help, the UNI Crisis Line is available 24/7 (at 801-587-3000), including a mobile crisis outreach team (MCOT).
Most importantly, the University of Utah and Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion wish our entire campus community a healthy and restive holiday break, and we look forward to seeing you back on campus in the New Year!