African Americans in Holiday Stress and Depression

By: Roberta Sanders, BSN, LMSW
December 12, 2019 11:56pm PST
 

We all know the holidays can be a joyful time that offers a chance to reconnect with friends and family. However it can also be stressful. The holidays can be hectic and there never seems to be enough time to get things done. We have all heard this before.

However, did you know that a study published in 2018 by the Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that African-Americans and Latinos are significantly more likely to experience serious depression than Whites?

The study indicates that chronic stress among adulthood may be an important factor in depression and it may be worse among racial and ethnic minorities due to the stress experience from social and economic inequalities. The study was designed to gain a better understanding regarding the relationships between chronic stress and the chance for depression by race and ethnicity. Given some of the risk factors identified for the African-American population for stress and depression, it is important that holiday stress needs to be managed well by this population.

So now that we understand the higher risk for stress and depression for the African-American population, what are some of the tips you can utilize during the holidays?

Below are few Items you may want to consider:

  • Have realistic expectations and realistic goals for yourself. Don’t take on more than you can do comfortably, while maintaining your physical and behavioral health.
  • Make a list and prioritize important activities. This way you can make holiday tasks more manageable. Get organized!
  • Make a holiday budget and stick to it before you go gift and food shopping. Clearly understand the amount that you have to spend on each of these areas.

Continue to maintain your healthy habits:

  • Have healthy snacks before holiday parties
  • Get plenty of rest during the holidays
  • Incorporate some physical activity each day
  • If you’re feeling lonely, volunteer your time to help others
  • Limit your drinking since excessive drinking will only increase feelings of depression
  • Learn to say NO. Only accept tasks you can complete

Following a few of these simple tips can help you have a more enjoyable Holiday season