Flipping the switch: how to manage the post holiday blues
It’s no longer the most wonderful time of the year. It’s back to the reality of a sad and murky wintertime stretch until spring break (which is a mere 53 days away - let the countdown begin!). After the holiday extravaganza, many individuals find both wallets and mental status empty and drained.
“Post-holiday blues” are common after a vacation or break. Also known as post-vacation syndrome, this period of depression usually takes place after a period of high emotion or stress. Much like an anxiety mood disorder, symptoms may include irritability, insomnia, low energy, difficulty concentrating, and overall anxiety. Thankfully for many, these symptoms don’t last long and are manageable.
Although there is very little research into this psychological phenomenon, the causes of this depression are largely attributed to adrenaline. An abrupt withdrawal from a period of high emotion, like the holidays, has a dampening effect on our overall mental well-being.
Depression spikes after the holidays because of the break in normal routine and adjustment period of getting back into the workflow. Winter break is one of the longest stretches of free time (coming only a month after Thanksgiving) and will be the last refresher until the end of March. This struggle to get back to work or school is partnered with biological clocks and routines. Essentially, our brains are tricking us into thinking that life is a lot more depressing than it actually is.
In fact, according to Dr. Melissa Weinberg of Deakin University School of Psychology, this post-holiday depression is “just one of a series of illusions our brain fools us into believing…Somewhat ironically, the capacity to fool ourselves every single day is an indication of good mental and psychological functioning.” Meaning that this seasonal depression is, to a certain extent, something that everyone experiences. Some may be more severe than others, but it is a completely normal and justified human emotion.
Coming down from a time of year when each person is expected to deal with difficult relationships and situations but have to simultaneously remain calm around problematic family members (like your racist Uncle Zeb) may be difficult. Like all types of depression, seasonal melancholia can create a cocoon of isolation. The most important part in combating these holiday blues is to remember that it’s ok to ask for help. This fog from post-New Years to spring break is something everyone experiences. It’s ok to go to counselors, family members, and other trusted adults or friends during this difficult period of solitude.
Post-holiday depression is a common thread of the human experience. Feelings of loneliness, a lack of motivation, and all other common symptoms of depression are things everyone experiences throughout life. Remember, in this time period before spring break, no one is alone in this fog. The most important thing to remember is that this depression will not last forever, and it is always okay to ask for help.
by Anika Flores
Published January 30, 2023
Oshkosh West Index Volume 119 Issue 4