For millions of Americans, the holiday season means depression instead of joy. This year, some counselors are seeing an increase in the number of clients they serve because of the economic recession.
"We call it sometimes, in counseling, maybe situational depression," said Psychotherapist Greg Hill. "I have seen a slight increase in some of the anxiety also and depression as well."
Hill says many of his clients are worried about providing gifts for their family, but with Christmas coming just a week before New Year's Day, some are worrying far beyond December 25th.
"That certainly relates directly to Christmas and wanting to provide for their family," Hill said, "but also the anxiety of not knowing what the New Year's going to bring in terms of employment."
Depression can hit anyone, Hill said, so it is important to know the warning signs.
1. Depressed mood most of the day nearly every day
2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities most of the day nearly every day
3. Significant weight loss or weight gain or decrease or increase in appetite nearly every day
4. Insomnia or hypersomnia
5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation nearly every day
6. Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day
7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt
8. Diminished ability to think or concentrate , or indecisiveness, nearly every day
9. Recurrent thoughts of death, suicide attempt, plan to commit suicide
"Probably the most important thing for them to know is to take care of themselves," Hill said. "Recognize the symptoms, not only for themselves but for those in their family."
Hill said in a financial crisis like this, it is also important to know what you can and can't control in your life.
"That's one thing that we focus on in therapy, focusing on the things you can control," Hill said. "Your thoughts, your emotions, the people in relationships that are immediately around you."