(PHOTO COURTESY OF: AP)

(WENY) -- For some people, getting together with family and friends for the holidays is fun. But, after the festivities are over, some people are often sad and not themselves.

"I think what really impacts people is the sunlight being gone and [it] getting darker earlier. Seasonal depression can start to hit people around the holidays but it's also a combination of their emotional health [which] in general is declining around the time of year when it's colder," said Johanna Webster, a licensed clinical social worker and independent therapist at the Southern Tier Counseling Center in Elmira.

Seasonal depression can happen to anyone who lives in places where there's less sunlight at certain times of the year, like the winter. Winter can be dark and gloomy and when the sun doesn't come out much, it impacts our mood.

"[When it's colder] it's easier to isolate and withdraw. It's not as easy to get out and do things with others," said Webster.

Webster said there are a couple of things people can do to help boost their moods like getting more exercise, volunteering, or grabbing coffee with a friend.

"I think it's really important for people to be aware of pushing themselves to do anything physically active. Physical activity is the best remedy without medication, so even if it's doing something at home [like] running up and down your stairs a couple of times. Anything you can do to try to move your body can be helpful. Giving back can boost people's moods too. A lot of people need extra support in the community; so, finding an outlet where you feel like you're doing something kind for somebody can help take their focus off their own emotions and struggles they might be having. Try to do something with other people even if it's just once a week getting coffee," said Webster.

Webster said everyone handles depression differently, but it's important to know when to ask for help.

"I think it is self-awareness and listening to the people you love and know well is important. Sometimes, other people around you notice it more than you notice it yourself. Sometimes a parent, friend, or family member says 'Hey, I've noticed you've been down more, you haven't been reaching out as much' so, listen to the people you trust when they're giving you feedback. Try not to take it as an insult, [as] it's coming from a loving/caring place. But, if you feel like you've really been trying to do some natural coping skills and it's not helping, insurance [can] cover a therapist, and finding [one] you can open up to can be helpful.," said Webster.

Webster also said reaching out to a primary care doctor and telling them how you've been feeling, they might be able to suggest a low-dose medication that can get you through the season.

For those who are experiencing a mental health crisis, the phone number for each county can be found below:

Bradford County Mental Health Services - (570)-265-1760 - After hours - 1-(877)-724-7142
Chemung County-Crisis - (607)-442-6900
Mental Health Services for Schuyler County - (607) 535-8282
Steuben County Community Mental Health Center - 
(607)-664-2255 (Adult Clinic)
(607)-664-2487 (Children & Families)
(607)-937-7800 (Afterhours-Emergency-Mobile Integration)
607-664-2161
Suicide Prevention & Crisis Center for Tompkins County - (607)-272-1616
Tioga County (NY) Mental Hygiene Clinic - Ask for the Mental Health on call (607)-687-1010
Tioga County (Pa) Mental Health Services - (570)-724-5766 or 1-(800)-242-5766

If you or someone you know is suicidal, please call or text 9-8-8.