Page 24 - December 19. 2024 Bulletin

IS THE END OF THE

YEAR A SAD TIME?

For many people, the end of the year and its holidays are a joyful time filled with
happy celebrations, gatherings and an overall sense of warmth and contentment.

But for others, it can be a time of sadness, anxiety, loneliness, pain and depression,
often called the holiday blues or holiday depression. When those feelings last longer
and are more intense, there’s a chance it could be SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder.

HOW DO I KNOW IF IT’S SAD?

SAD Holiday Blues
Lasts roughly 40% of the year Starts in Nov. or Dec. fades
in early Jan.
Increased appetite Changes in appetite or weight
Increased irritability Mild depression or irritability
Increased fatigue, Changes in sleep patterns,
sleeping more more tired
Social withdrawal Difficulty concentrating
Increased sensitivity Feelings of worthlessness
to rejection or guilt
Feeling of heaviness Feeling tense, worried
in the arms or legs or anxious

BCBSND.com

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