Weekend depression

For most of us weekends mean fun, freedom from the daily grind, and relaxation. That is not the case for some people suffering from depression who feel like weekends only add to their depressive symptoms. Experts have identified a few reasons for why weekend depression happens and what we can do to feel better about weekends.

Reasons Weekends can suck!

1.       A lack of structure – Our weekdays are usually structured moving from task to task and in constant ‘doing mode’ which can help distract us from our troubles. Whereas weekends are usually less structured and when we are depressed, will have barely any planned activities which can add to the low mood.

2.       A lack of social connection – Humans are social creatures, so when we are depressed, the working week forces us to interact socially with colleagues helping to distract us from depressive symptoms.  Depression often causes us to isolate ourselves from others, further adding to our low mood therefore weekends can exacerbate symptoms.

3.       Comparing ourselves to others – Depression saps us of our energy and motivation so we typically won’t do the things we used to like to do on weekends. When we compare our lives to others, especially on social media being social and having fun, we can feel even more depressed.

Ways to improve Weekend Depression

1.       Create some structure – Having things to do on weekends creates structure and things to look forward to. Just by adding one small activity each morning and each afternoon of the weekend can help lift your mood. If your depression is severe then scheduling small activities by the hour i.e., eating breakfast, taking a shower, taking a short walk and buying groceries can help you feel more positive.

2.       Connect with friends and family – Making plans to meet with friends or family over the weekend can boost your mood. Whether it is a simple coffee catch up with a friend or connecting with a like-minded social group reduces isolation, helping to improve depression.