The Christmas season is a time for joy and merriment, but if you’re feeling burned out in the days and weeks leading up to the holidays, you’re not alone.

Dr. Alexandra Gold from Mass General Brigham, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School says it’s not unusual to feel a bit exhausted this time of year as the winter solstice approaches and daylight hours wane. She says that feeling may be a more pronounced this year thanks to the news cycle and the changing political climate.

She says people often feel a little low this time of year simply because they’re not getting enough sunlight. “People might feel more desire to stay in and sleep, more cravings for carbohydrates, more low mood, so that piece is not new this year.”

She acknowledges, “we do have in our world right now a lot of world events, a lot of economic pressures people are experiencing and that can kind of add to this picture of duress or low mood.”

She says things to watch for are persistent low mood, excessive sleep and not wanting to engage in daily activities. She says trying to get involved in some kind of social event or gathering is what most professionals suggest to help pull people out of the doldrums.

She says engaging with friends or family, and spending specific, dedicated time with others will help to lift spirits for those who may be suffering seasonal affective disorder.