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    Be Practical

    Holidays are incredibly stressful for everyone, especially if you put pressure on yourself for everything to be perfect. Bernard Davidson, PhD, a psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, said it's important to remain practical during this time of year.

    "Remember that the holidays are not about everything being perfect," he said. "Keep your expectations in line, and try not to compare yourself to others. Relax and stay focused on the real meaning of the season: quality time with friends and family."

    The Holidays Aren't Always Happy - How to Handle Depression This Time of Year

    The holiday season is supposed to be the happiest time of the year: cheery Christmas music playing everywhere you go, festive decorations on every block, holiday parties, traditions, and lots of tasty treats. But for some people, the holidays can trigger an onslaught of depressive symptoms.

    Whether you struggle with depression year-round or just get blue this time of year, there are some ways you can combat these negative feelings. We spoke to mental health experts, who detailed the 11 best ways to combat holiday depression. If your mood continues to get worse or you experience any of these symptoms of depression for more than two weeks, it might be time to visit a doctor or mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or licensed therapist.

    If you are depressed and need help finding help or resources, call the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (1-240-485-1001) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (1-800-950-6264).

    Related:

    Mental Health Experts Reveal 11 Ways to Deal With Holiday Stress So You Can Have a Jolly Holiday