Post-Holiday Letdown: Navigating the Return to Reality

The holidays are over, its grey outside and its back to the grind. Learn ways to help combat the January blues

The holiday season is often a time of excitement, relaxation, and a break from the routine. It can also be a time of increased stress and fatigue, as well as grief from the loss of a loved one. As the celebrations come to a close, many of us experience what is called the “post-holiday blues” which is a feeling of sadness, anger, or loneliness. It may feel confusing and isolating to experience these feelings after what we expect to be a happy occasion.

Children are particularly susceptible to feeling down after the festivities are over as they adjust to going to bed earlier, going back to school, having more expectations put on themselves, not having a break for several months, having less time to play outside, saying goodbye to family members, and the loss of excitement from the holidays.

Adults as well experience post-holiday let down as they return to work, maybe didn’t get the rest that they needed during the holiday season, or maybe their holidays didn’t go as planned. Children and adults may experience sleep disturbances, changes in their mood, changes in their eating habits, and irritability. It’s normal to feel sad or let down temporarily, but if these feelings persist for more than 2 weeks (or the feelings are overwhelming), it’s important to reach out for help.

Some strategies that adults and children can try to help them get through this time are, easing back into routines gradually, prioritizing sleep, create something to look forward to like a mini vacation, learning a new skill, or reading a new book, reach out to loved ones to maintain connection with others, exercise, go outside even though it’s cold, and stay grounded by keeping a gratitude journal. Most importantly, be kind to yourself and allow yourself time to rest.

The post-holiday letdown is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By easing back into routine, creating new goals, and taking care of yourself, you can find a way to make the transition smoother and more manageable. Remember, this period of adjustment is temporary, and soon enough, you’ll find new sources of joy and excitement in everyday life. Until then, embrace the quiet after the storm, reflect on the good moments, and give yourself the time and space you need to recharge for the year ahead.