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Festivals are meant to be joyful- they promise connection, colour, and celebration. In India, where festivals such as Diwali, Durga Puja, and Christmas stretch across nearly four months, the expectation to be joyful often collides with emotional fatigue, financial strain, and social comparison. Simply put, the lights, sweets, and gatherings can cast long shadows for those already struggling with loneliness or loss. Research increasingly shows that for many, the festive season brings more anxiety than comfort. A 2014 report by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 64% of people living with mental health conditions experienced worsening symptoms during the holidays. Another survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed that 38% of adults reported heightened stress during festive periods.
