Salisbury psychologist gives tips on how to handle the holiday blues

With the temperatures dropping and the days getting shorter, many are struggling with their feelings of sadness, loneliness, and anxiety.

And during the holidays, it can be an actual diagnosed problem, called S.A.D, which is known as seasonal affective disorder and can affect over 3 million people. 

Experts say that a lack of sunlight can contribute to a shortage of serotonin,  which can make you feel better.

47 ABC spoke to a local psychologist on how you can be in the present and bring up your spirits in time for the holidays. 

Dr. Kathryn Seifert tells 47 ABC, "The contrast with the very large happiness that every one feels and you feel sad that contrast makes it feel like it's bigger and that's why talking about it because really important."

We're told some get sad because they miss a loved one. But there are some ways to remember them.

"When you celebrate the life of whose not there, often some kind of little ritual, you have a special ornament that goes on the tree that represents Uncle Harry, and people tell funny stories about him," Dr. Seifert says. 

She tells us the best thing to do with all your emotions is to be vocal about it and telling someone else. This can actually lift your spirits because your expressing yourself and somebody's validating how you feel. 

But once you express your feelings, it's time to take action by doing happy or positive things. 

"Again supportive folks or family or friends that can come and see you, you can see them, that generates the comradery and the good feeling, so not only getting your negative feelings out but being with friends and family to be happy," Dr. Seifert tells us.