Expert tips to avoid "Anniversary Depression" during New Year

WISE NEWS PRESS / ANTALYA, TÜRKİYE — DECEMBER 27, 2025

Psychiatry Specialist Dr. Fatma Arkaz warns that the transition into a new year, often marketed as a time of mandatory joy, can trigger "anniversary depression" and deep-seated internal unrest for many individuals.

As the calendar turns, the symbolic weight of the new year often forces an internal audit of past successes and failures. Dr. Arkaz notes that for those who have had a difficult year, questions like "Why am I still here at this age?" can deepen feelings of inadequacy. She emphasizes that the social pressure to feel hopeful and productive is not a universal emotional requirement and that feeling "blue" during the festivities is a natural psychological response for some.

The heavy burden of mandatory happiness

One of the primary drivers of psychological distress during this season is the invisible yet powerful "obligation to be happy." Dr. Arkaz explains that social circles, advertisements, and social media idealize an upbeat and productive persona. "In psychology, we know that every suppressed emotion returns stronger from another angle. When people see everyone else appearing happy, they begin to feel that their own sadness is a flaw," Arkaz stated.

Social media: The showcase vs. reality

Social media intensifies the urge to compare one's life with others during the New Year period. Dr. Arkaz reminds us that what we see on screens—lavish dinners, travels, and grand resolutions—is merely a curated "display window" of life, not the whole reality. This constant comparison often leaves individuals feeling left behind, as the human mind frequently prioritizes emotional triggers over logical reasoning.

Post-celebration anxiety and risk factors

Once the celebrations end and daily responsibilities return, a sense of "unexplained restlessness" can emerge. Dr. Arkaz highlights that certain groups are at higher risk for this emotional slump:

• Individuals living alone or those who have recently experienced a loss.

• Those facing economic or professional uncertainties.

• People with a history of depression or anxiety disorders.

"The New Year is not an exam where everything must change overnight," Dr. Arkaz concludes. "Sometimes, the most significant beginning is simply showing yourself a bit more understanding and compassion rather than forcing a total life reset."

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