Nostalgia, sadness, and grief increase during these months.

During the months of October, November, and December, depressive states increase, a phenomenon related to the proximity of the Day of the Dead festivities, Christmas, and New Year, and the reflection on unfulfilled goals, explained clinical psychologist Rubí Briceño Correa.

The specialist indicated that, at this time of year, people tend to reflect on the past year and remember significant losses, whether of loved ones or pets, which can generate feelings of sadness and melancholy. “It’s a period in which we must be more attentive to the signs of depression,” she warned.

As Christmas and New Year's celebrations approach, the memory of those who have passed away intensifies. "These are dates that evoke nostalgia and longing, especially because they coincide with the Day of the Dead," added Briceño Correa.

Time of the Dead

Regarding the Day of the Dead, the psychologist pointed out that this commemoration has both positive and negative aspects. Its emotional impact is undeniable, although it varies according to individual experience and the degree of connection with the tradition.

“For some families, the date is very significant, while others celebrate it more out of social custom,” she explained. The emotional impact—whether positive or negative—depends on the personal experience of the losses and the symbolic value given to the tradition.

Among the positive effects, Rubí Briceño highlighted that the commemoration strengthens the sense of family and community belonging, fosters solidarity, and can be considered a way to honor those who are no longer with us. “It can even serve as a therapeutic process, because it allows for emotional closure and promotes reflection on life and death,” she said.

The specialist added that these celebrations also foster family and community togetherness. “The act of gathering to prepare and share traditional foods like pib strengthens unity and a sense of mutual support,” she affirmed.

Negative aspects

However, the psychologist acknowledged that for some people, the Day of the Dead can reactivate feelings of grief or sadness, especially when remembering the loss of a loved one. "In certain cases, it can trigger an emotional regression or unresolved grief," she warned.

Furthermore, she emphasized that the social pressure to participate in the celebrations—attending events, visiting cemeteries, or walking the Paseo de las Ánimas—can be overwhelming, especially for those who are experiencing recent grief.

Briceño pointed out that the excessive commercialization of this festival has contributed to the loss of authenticity, which can be disappointing for those who value tradition.

The specialist emphasized that the emotional impact of Day of the Dead can be twofold: positive or negative, or even both in the same person. Therefore, she recommended paying attention to those who are emotionally affected during this time and, if necessary, referring them to mental health professionals.

Psychologist Briceño Correa emphasized that the pain of losing a pet can be as intense as losing a person. “I’ve had patients who seek therapy because of the death of their pet, and their suffering can be devastating,” she noted.

The degree of grief depends on the relationship one had with the animal. “For many people, their pet was their only companion, and its loss is equivalent to the loss of a human being,” he stated.

Grief, in these cases, can include feelings of sadness, emptiness, nostalgia, and, above all, guilt. “The person feels they didn't do enough, that they neglected their pet, or that they weren't present,” she indicated. This feeling is especially common because animals depend entirely on humans.

She warned that these losses should not be underestimated, as in extreme cases they can lead to suicidal thoughts. “Some people require professional help to process their grief and overcome guilt,” she stated.

Each individual experiences grief differently: some find comfort in memories and in paying tribute to their pet, even placing it on the altar of the dead, while others need therapeutic support to complete the process.— CLAUDIA SIERRA MEDINA