By: Rachel Crickmar
The holidays often come with a mix of joy, connection, and maybe even a bit of stress. When the season ends, it’s not uncommon to feel a bit of a letdown—what many call the “post-holiday blues.” With the festive lights packed away and routines beginning anew, you might notice feelings of sadness, fatigue, or even anxiety creeping in. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, “Holiday blues are different from mental illness, but short-term mental health problems must be taken seriously. They can lead to clinical anxiety and depression.” If this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to gently move through this phase.
Why Do We Experience Post-Holiday Blues?
The holiday season is a time of heightened emotions, whether it’s excitement, stress, or nostalgia. Once the season ends, the sudden return to “normal” life can feel jarring. Common contributors to the blues include:
- Emotional fatigue from social gatherings and family dynamics.
- Financial strain from holiday spending.
- Routine changes, such as adjusting from holiday downtime to busy schedules.
- Seasonal factors, like shorter days and less sunlight.
Acknowledging the root of your feelings can help normalize them and remind you that this is a temporary phase.
Tips to Move Through the Blues
- Re-establish Your Routine
After the holidays, returning to structure can provide stability. Start with small, achievable goals, like meal prepping or setting regular sleep and wake times. Consistency fosters a sense of control and calm. - Prioritize Rest and Recovery
If the holiday hustle left you feeling drained, give yourself permission to rest. Taking a walk, journaling, or practicing mindfulness can help you recharge. - Stay Social in Meaningful Ways
The holidays might bring an overflow of social engagements, but the new year doesn’t have to mean isolation. Reach out to friends for coffee, join a local group, or connect virtually to maintain relationships without the holiday intensity. - Reflect, Don’t Regret
It’s easy to dwell on overindulgence or challenges during the holidays, but try to shift toward reflection. What brought you joy? What didn’t work? Use these insights to shape the months ahead. - Set Gentle Goals for the Year Ahead
Instead of diving into strict resolutions, think about intentions that align with your values. For instance, if you value self-care, you might focus on carving out one quiet evening per week for yourself. - Seek Light and Movement
Winter months can amplify low energy levels due to reduced sunlight. When possible, get outside during daylight hours or try light therapy. Even gentle movement, like stretching or a short walk, can lift your mood. - Reach Out for Support
If your feelings persist or deepen, consider connecting with a therapist. They can provide a safe space to explore your emotions and equip you with tools to navigate this transitional period. - Check-in on Children and Teens
Children and teens get the blues too. The highest rate for child psychiatric hospitalizations occurs in winter. Including your children in the conversation can normalize these feelings and help them to take steps towards healthy coping at the end of the holiday season.
Moving Forward
The post-holiday blues don’t have to define your start to the year. By taking small, intentional steps, you can ease back into balance and discover joy in the quieter moments of life. Remember, it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions as you transition—give yourself grace and space to process. If you’re finding it hard to manage these feelings alone, our therapists at Therapeutic Partners are here to help. Schedule a session today to explore how we can support you in creating a meaningful, fulfilling start to your year.
