It’s no secret that the holiday season has the potential to be as stressful and sad as it can be love-filled and joyous. Keeping the holiday scales tipped in favor of joy can be tricky work. But we’ve got you covered: Use the tips below and you’ll not only get through the season with a minimum of holiday stress, you may be able to enjoy it more.

Key Takeaways:

• The good news, Sheras said, is that despite the common perception, suicide numbers go down in November and December.
• One of the most important things you can do to help yourself, Sheras said, is manage your expectation of what the holiday season can be.
• She advises sticking to your normal routine as closely as you can, especially regarding eating (“not everything is a treat”) and exercise, which really can help mood.

“The good news, Sheras said, is that despite the common perception, suicide numbers go down in November and December.”

http://wtop.com/christmas-news/2016/12/psychologists-offer-advice-dealing-holiday-stress-depression/