For many people, the holiday season can be the most depressing time of the year.

In spite of the Christmas music on the radio, the annual television show favorites, or the proliferation of decorations that adorn our neighborhoods, many people suffer from what is often called “The Holiday Blues.”

“We often think of the holidays as a joyous time filled with fun, family, events, activities, gift giving and receiving, charity, traditions, and symbolism. To some, the holiday season is just that,” said Allison Thompson, a licensed clinical social worker and outpatient psychotherapist with Health Affiliates Maine. “To others, it can also mean errands, added responsibility, a financial struggle, a reminder of loss or loneliness, social anxiety, family pressures, and stress. It can be hard to balance some of the extreme joys with the extreme stressors of this time of year.”

Thompson also said that the holidays can bring a wave of emotions, including happiness and anticipation, that can leave people feeling “blah” when it is all over and transitioning back to their regular routine.

To beat the blues, Thompson reminds people to remember that they are only one person and that they should keep all the stress factors in balance.

“Try to reduce your stress by setting and asserting firm boundaries around people and things that cause stress in your life and limit your obligations,” said Thompson, noting that it is okay to say “no” to requests and commitments that can’t be handled.

Another sure sign of stress can be seen in the way that people handle finances during the holidays. Being bombarded with advertisements that equate happiness with excessive gift giving can raise anxiety and high expectations that can’t be fulfilled.

“Try to remember that giving does not always mean financial depletion,” noted Thompson. “Think of creative ways you can care for others and yourself without spending lots of money.”

For those who may be dealing with loss, transition, or loneliness, Thompson recommended volunteering your time at a worthwhile charity, surrounding yourself with supportive people or environments, and taking a step back if you need it.

“Think about starting your own new traditions. You may also need to take a break from all the ‘fun’ and make sure you continue an established routine or sit out an event,” said Thompson.

Thompson cautioned that if these feelings of sadness or depressing behaviors increase over time or interrupt daily living activities, it may be more serious and may require additional help.

“When we need to reach out the most, we have the hardest time doing so. At times, reaching out to your natural support system (i.e. friends and family) may be enough,” said Thompson, adding that a call to your primary health physician or a mental health professional could be helpful to get through a difficult time.

To find a mental health professional, Thompson suggested calling 211 or going to www.211maine.org , a resource of social service listings in Maine. Health Affiliates Maine also provides statewide services at 1-877-888-4304.