For most people the holiday season is a fun time of year filled with parties and gatherings with family and friends. But for some people, this season is filled with sadness.

Balancing shopping, parties, and family obligations may contribute to feelings of depression this holiday season. College student Stephanie Thorpe says,  "Shopping, you know, the crowds in the mall, there's so many people rushing to get presents, you know, trying to eat right, all these family functions, it's just overwhelming."

Social worker Mark Geisler says often times the holiday blues are also brought on by unmet expectations and he offers a solution. "Lowered expectations are pretty valuable. Expect a lot less.  With that will come a sense of gratitude for those things that we have."

Mark also says that another way to combat the holiday's blues is to go out and do something to help others. "Do what you're comfortable doing." Stephanie also says, "You know they have those angel trees, where you can buy presents for little kids you know, there's so much stuff that you can do to give back and that always puts you in a good mood."

Mark adds that if you're already missing a loved one that has passed on, a lot of times those feelings are magnified around this time of year. "Things that trigger certain memories, recollections, it can be bittersweet or down right sad for folks."

And if you notice a family member that's not himself or herself, let them know you care.

Also, you want to be sure not to overindulge in alcohol or food. Enjoy holiday meals in moderation, because excessive food and drink will only make you feel worse.