Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it’s happened!
-Dr. Seuss
Do you feel a little letdown after the holidays each year? After all the buildup, many of us tend to feel a myriad of feelings with the holiday season coming to a close. And, post-holiday blues may actually be more common than you think.
Some of the common symptoms of post-holiday blues may include:
- Feeling sad that the joy, fun and spirit of the holidays is over for yet another year
- Grief around missing your family and friends who have returned to their everyday lives
- Anxiety around returning to work after taking time off
- Feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially if your close friends and family members live far away
- Overwhelm around the holiday clean up, kids returning to school, going back to the “grind” of life
What else would you add here?
Here are some of the possible causes of post-holiday blues:
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during the cold and dark winter months
- Not having fun things to look forward to in January
- Financial stressors from overspending
- Feeling disconnected from others without holiday get-togethers and parties
- Missing a loved one who has passed away and wasn’t part of this past holiday season
- Kids getting older and closer to adulthood and creating their own holiday traditions
Anything else you’d add to this list?
Coping strategies for the post-holiday blues:
- Talk to a therapist
- Meditate
- Exercise
- Connect with local family and friends
- Journal
- Read
- Go for a walk
- Snuggle with your pet
What’s missing from this list that’s helpful to you thing time of year?
The post-holiday blues are hard for all of us. They may not aways show up, and life may look and feel different from year to year. Know that you are not alone in how you’re feeling, and that your feelings are valid. If you’re struggling after the holidays, please reach out to a therapist in your area for support. I’m sending lots of love and compassion your way as you navigate this (often) hard time after the holiday season comes to a close.
