According to https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/mcleans-guide-managing-mental-health-around-holidays

The American Psychological Association, 38% of people surveyed said their stress increased during the holiday season, which can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. 

“As a daughter I can see my mom and dad is normally incredibly stressed during Christmas. She tries to please everyone with the right gift,” Cheyenne Beer, sophomore, said. 

Seasonal depression is common than most think. Approximately 14 percent of Americans experience the “winter blues.” These blues can be especially overwhelming during a time of change. Christmas and New Year’s Eve often present challenging demands, from never-ending parties to family obligations. 

“I have noticed that my grandpa is really depressed during the holidays, and I feel like it because my grandma passed away and I think during holidays is when he thinks about her mostly. That is part of his family which is gone,” Kaylea Adkins, senior, said. 

During holiday time, stress is caused by a few factors: lack of money, shopping decisions and deadlines, parties, strained family relations, pressures to please family and friends and have “the perfect” holiday, and the media bombardment of happy, smiling families and friends enjoying holiday festivities.