Holiday Blues: How to Manage, When to Seek Help

holiday blues
Reading Time: 4 min

How to Manage the Post-Holiday Blues

Many people, when they come to work after a long holiday, instead of feeling energized, feel tired and broken. This is a syndrome of post-holiday blues, associated with a sudden change in daily routine and a decrease in adrenaline levels. So, what to do if your depressive state is lingering?

Post-holiday depression is not a slacker’s fiction by any means, but a quite serious human condition that can last anywhere from an hour to several weeks. According to studies by the World Health Organization, more than half of the people in the world suffer from this disease. If you are one of them, don’t worry: there are certain ways to cope with post-holiday moping. If you get to know how self-care reduces stress it would be easier to cope with depression.

Understanding the Holiday Blues

Post-holiday depression is a period of sadness that can last for at least two weeks after a long holiday season. Following the holiday festivities, many people may face grave thoughts, loneliness, and anxiety. These are just a small part of possible negative emotions that a person may encounter. Even those who enjoy a long vacation can experience stress and emotional exhaustion.

It is more of a psychological phenomenon where people may feel sadness, frustration, or devastation after a certain life stage is over. Although the holidays represent an ideal time for love, joy, and caring for oneself and others, they can often cause depression. This is because people don’t want to part with a sense of ease and carefree feeling when they have to return to their daily routines and responsibilities.

This is why many people are familiar with the feeling of apathy, lethargy and exhaustion when returning to work. In such cases, particularly sensitive people become irascible, nervous, and irritable. Under the influence of these emotions, they often make hasty and rash decisions that can have negative consequences.

holiday blues

What are the Symptoms of Holiday Blues?

A recurring or persistent feeling of sadness is one of the most common symptoms of post-holiday depression. It can vary in intensity and duration. Some people may feel depressed periodically but experience brief periods of high spirits.

Other signs of post-holiday anxiety may include:

  • changes in appetite or weight;
  • changes in sleep routines;
  • depressed or irritable mood;
  • concentration difficulties;
  • feelings of guilt, tension, worry, or anxiety;
  • feelings of fatigue above normal levels;
  • loss of pleasure in doing familiar activities.

Although post-holiday sadness is often compared to depression, it is slightly a different condition. This is a short-term depression that is characterized by a variety of symptoms such as apathy, desolation, frustration, loneliness, and anxiety, as well as tension, sleep disturbance, decreased appetite, difficulty concentrating, and loss of energy.  Sleep issues and depression often exacerbate each other, forming a challenging cycle that can impact overall well-being.

These factors may be in addition to worries about expenses and financial status, active work or study pressure, as well as relationship issues with others and holiday experiences. Unlike depression, post-holiday syndrome is short-lived; however, if these symptoms persist for more than a couple of weeks, it is recommended to see a mental health provider.

Tips for Managing the Holiday Blues

Many people look forward to the holidays. However, once the celebrations are over, the transition to the normal routine can be difficult. Therefore, there is no need to divide time into the “before and after” of holidays. It’s important to learn to enjoy every moment of life, whether it’s the holidays or regular weekdays.

6 tips for a stress-free holiday season:

  1. Organizing relief days will help the body recover from holiday feasts. Eating during the holidays is often not healthy, so the body needs a break. It is recommended to follow a diet.
  2. Physical activity such as swimming, fitness or gym classes are effective in fighting depression. Even exercising or walking can help.
  3. Planning your daily regimen by minutes allows you to set aside time not only for daily activities but also for entertainment and adequate sleep. 
  4. General house cleaning helps get rid of reminders of past holidays and stop pining for them.
  5. Changes in appearance, such as a new hairstyle or an outfit, can have a positive impact on your mood.
  6. Sharing your experiences with loved ones can help you cope with depression.

If the holiday season passes and you still are feeling depressed after a vacation, you should talk to a psychologist or other mental health professional to assess the seriousness of your condition.

Dealing with Post-Holiday Depression

Navigating the transition from festive holidays to routine can be challenging. Post-holiday blues, characterized by feelings of sadness or letdown, are common during this time. To cope, prioritize self-care: maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and ensure adequate sleep. Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and stability. Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones. Seek support from friends or professionals if needed. Remember, it’s natural to feel a bit down after the holidays, but with self-compassion and positive coping strategies, it’s possible to navigate this period successfully.

Mental health professionals recommend resting with a change of activities that will stimulate imagination and creativity. To enjoy your work, take breaks to read paper books, do puzzles, or draw.

Identify important and urgent tasks, as well as things that you can and cannot delegate to others. Start the most difficult tasks in the morning and leave the easier ones for the afternoon. If you don’t feel up to working, give yourself a rest and return to tasks later after you’ve regained your energy.

Depression after Christmas or other holidays can be treated, you just need to change your thinking. Meditation, special relaxation exercises, and the ability to rejoice and be surprised by pleasant little things that often happen in a person’s life will help. Understand for yourself: every weekday cannot be a holiday. And for the next holiday to be as bright, you will need time to devote not only to work but also to your loved ones. 

Depression therapy offers individuals struggling with mental health challenges effective tools and support to navigate their journey toward healing and recovery.

When to Seek Help

Knowing when to seek help for post-holiday blues is important for your mental well-being. If feelings of sadness, lethargy, or anxiety persist for more than a few weeks and significantly interfere with your daily life, it may be time to seek professional help. 

Other signs include difficulty functioning at work or in relationships, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and thoughts of self-harm. A mental health professional can provide support, guidance, and strategies to manage your symptoms effectively. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re struggling to cope with post-holiday blues.

All Day Medical Care Clinic Team

Autor

All Day Medical Care Clinic Team

This article was prepared with the All Day Medical Care Clinic Team and its experienced clinic providers, ensuring accurate and reliable health information.

The Differences Between Flu and COVID-19

At a glance, it can be easy to confuse the flu and COVID-19. After all, they’re both respiratory illnesses, they’re...
Read More

Top 10 Tips to Manage Blood Pressure & Prevent Hypertension

Did you know 1 in 3 adults have high blood pressure? This condition, also known as hypertension, is especially dangerous, because people...
Read More

9 Ways to Boost Your Immunity This Fall

Autumn is a time when our bodies need support. Decreased sunlight, colder temperatures, and higher humidity create favorable conditions for...
Read More

Baby’s First Year: Doctor Visit Schedule

Bringing a baby home comes with magical milestones and unexpected twists and turns. But, there’s one thing you can expect:...
Read More

Strengthen Your Relationship with Couples Counseling

People make a lot of assumptions about therapy, especially when it involves relationships. For instance, you may assume your problems...
Read More

The Importance of Back-to-School Health Checks for Kids

Confess how often you ignore preventive visits to your doctor's office, when you are feeling well, and nothing is bothering...
Read More

Effective Heat Rash Treatment and Prevention

Heat rash, or prickly heat, is a condition caused by blocked sweat ducts. It often appears as a red, bumpy...
Read More

Heart Health Screenings: Everything You Need to Know

Heart health screenings are very important for early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases, which are leading causes of morbidity...
Read More

The Importance of Getting Your Women’s Health Screening

It can be hard to keep up with the demands of everyday life, especially if you feel pulled in numerous...
Read More

How Often Should I Get a Physical?

Taking a trip to the doctor may seem unnecessary when you seem perfectly healthy. However, regular physical exams provide a...
Read More

How Setting Goals Can Positively Impact Our Mental Health

The speed of modern life is increasing day by day, and psychological and emotional stress is growing along with it....
Read More

5 Signs Your Anxiety is Problematic

If anxiety is a problem, either for you or your child, it’s important to know that you can get relief...
Read More

Comprehensive Mental Health Treatment for All Disorders

Studies show that almost half of all American adults experience some type of mental illness at some point. Mental disorders can develop...
Read More

Common Viruses in Children: 7 Infections Kids Pick Up at School

Children are naturally curious and social, making schools a hotspot for the spread of infections. While classrooms provide an ideal...
Read More

Are Your Immunizations Up-to-Date?

If you don’t remember the last time you had an immunization, it could be time to schedule a doctor’s appointment....
Read More

The Importance of Self-Care In Managing Stress

Depending on the severity of the stress, the recovery process is different, but it always starts with conscious attention to...
Read More

What to Know When Heart Disease Runs in Your Family

When a close relative like your mother or father has a heart attack, it’s natural to wonder: “Is heart disease...
Read More

Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health, Anxiety, and Depression

According to a scientific brief published by the World Health Organization (WHO), in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic,...
Read More

Understanding Your Options for Mental Health Treatment

It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out where to start when it comes to taking care of your mental...
Read More

What is Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)?

What is conjunctivitis? Pink eye is a condition where the inner layer of the eyelids and the protective layer of...
Read More

Essential Screenings for Women’s Health Exams

There’s a reason why a routine health exam can feel, well, routine. That’s because these appointments establish a baseline of...
Read More

Five Reasons Why You Should Get an Annual Check-Up

Modern life is busy and exciting and goes by at a quick pace. However, health care often becomes an afterthought,...
Read More

6 Benefits of Group Therapy

If the idea of group therapy has left you feeling embarrassed or intimidated, we have good news for you: Group therapy...
Read More

Secondary Trauma: Help Others, Protect Yourself

  What is Secondary Trauma Secondary traumatic stress is the emotional duress that results when an individual hears about the...
Read More

How Mental Health Issues Affect Men Differently

Men's mental health issues affect them differently due to various societal, biological, and cultural factors. Men are often expected to...
Read More

5 Steps for Heart Health: Fight Coronary Disease

What is CAD? CAD, also called heart disease, or coronary heart disease, causes roughly 735,000 hearts attacks and leads to...
Read More

When Should I Go to the ER Instead of Urgent Care?

Health problems often come out of nowhere, especially when they involve an injury. However, whether you have a fever that...
Read More

What is RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

What is RSV? It is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract disease in infants and causes >50,000 hospitalizations...
Read More

Getting Help for Your Anger Issues

Anger is a healthy emotion, and most of us get mad at times. This reaction can occur for various reasons,...
Read More

Can Therapy Save My Marriage?

In the United States, 40-50% of marriages end in divorce. Those numbers can seem alarming, but they’re also starting to drop,...
Read More

How to Cope with Chronic Illness During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is always associated with joy and happiness, but for people with chronic conditions, this time can be...
Read More

Importance of Mental Health Awareness for Healthcare Workers

Mental health in healthcare workers is critical due to the demanding nature of their profession. Healthcare workers often face high...
Read More

What Is the Difference Between Behavioral Health and Mental Health?

While often used interchangeably, behavioral health vs mental health are distinct concepts. Mental wellness pertains to your psychological well-being, encompassing...
Read More

Guide to Treatment-Resistant STDs for Active Adults

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be a source of stigma and embarrassment, and, unfortunately, this often keeps people from getting...
Read More

How Stress Can Increase Your Risk for Heart Disease

Do you know that stress has a great impact on human health, and in most cases, in a negative way?...
Read More

7 Habits for Your Heart-Healthy Living

7 Habits for Your Heart-Healthy Living A healthy heart needs a healthy lifestyle. That doesn't mean you should rush to...
Read More

See Your Doctor from the Comfort of Your Home

At All Day Medical Care Clinic in Gaithersburg and Silver Spring, Maryland, we’re open for in-office visits. However, our team is also accepting new...
Read More

What is Mindfulness? Best Practice for Greater Well-being

Mindfulness is a relatively new field that has gained extremely wide popularity and application in recent years for overcoming distress,...
Read More

What are Anger Issues?

Anger is a normal emotion that can be useful for mental health. It helps us identify things that hurt us...
Read More

Noncardiac Chest Pain: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments 

Noncardiac chest pain is a frequent reason to visit a doctor, as it can indicate serious diseases of the lungs, digestive...
Read More

How to Know if You Have an Urgent Care Need

Advancements in technology have made it possible to get medical care as easily as possible. In fact, thanks to virtual “telemedicine”...
Read More

Keeping Your Holiday and Winter Cheer Bright

The festive holiday season and chilly winter months often come with emotional challenges that can dim your cheer. Shorter days,...
Read More

What STD Tests Should I Consider?

In 2018, an estimated 68 million people in the United States had an STD, or sexually transmitted disease. Unfortunately, that number was...
Read More

Understanding What a Weight Management Program Involves

It’s no secret that losing weight is hard. However, weight management programs give you the tools and confidence you need...
Read More

Overcoming Trauma: Finding Light in the Darkness

What is Trauma? Trauma is an emotional response to a terrifying and dangerous event, which threatens and harms an individual’s...
Read More

New Year’s Cholesterol Control: Top 5 Tips

Approximately 1 out of 8 Americans have high total cholesterol values. However, not all cholesterol is bad, and there are many ways...
Read More

Holiday Blues: How to Manage, When to Seek Help

How to Manage the Post-Holiday Blues Many people, when they come to work after a long holiday, instead of feeling...
Read More

Dizziness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Very often patients come to a neurologist with dizziness. Indeed, no one has ever experienced it. This term describes a...
Read More

What to Expect During Your First Well-Woman Exam

There’s no specific age to begin having well-woman visits. You might start having these critical annual checkups as a teenager, or...
Read More

Protect Your Heart and Health: The Importance of Getting a Flu Shot

Protect Your Heart and Health: The Importance of Getting a Flu Shot As the temperature drops and winter approaches, so...
Read More

We'll text you

Enter your info and we’ll text you shortly.

By clicking Send, I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and I consent to receiving text messages from this practice acknowledging that data rates may apply. Message frequency varies.