The Holiday season is over…

Many of us enjoy the excitement and hustle & bustle of the holiday season. For some, all of the stress and excitement may cause anxiety.  The end of the holidays is a relief! But for many others, the complete stop after the season may cause “post-holiday blues”. 

Why Do We Feel Depressed After the Holidays?

Regular life is interrupted. Even if your holidays weren’t so merry and bright, the brain exaggerates the realities of day-to-day life, making the return to the mundane seem disproportionately more anxiety-inducing and depressing than it actually is.

Being Exhausted

The holidays may make us emotionally exhausted. Some of us are literally running around in preparation! I was tired just watching my dad prepare!

Diet

The holidays are usually when we do not follow our best diet or even break our routine. Eating too much sugar or junk food may help cause depression! I ate so many doggy treats that I gained a few pounds and feel sluggish. 

Post-Holiday Depression Statistics

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 24% of people with a diagnosed mental illness find that the holidays make their condition “a lot” worse and 40% “somewhat” worse.”

The most difficult months for people with Seasonal Affective Disorder, a type of depression, in the United States tend to be January and February, according to the American Psychiatric Association. This can compound negative post-holiday feelings in the 5% of adults in the U.S. who experience SAD.

Getting over the Slump

Quality sleep, regular exercise, and a nutrient-dense diet—these healthy lifestyle cornerstones are recommended by experts to boost mood and manage depression symptoms.

Have some fun! Come to soak at the hot springs and relax. Visit with friends who uplift you. Play your favorite music or create within your favorite hobby. I like to run around with my friends! Whatever brings you joy, go do it!

Happy January!

~healthcentral

I hope you appreciated this post and have a great and safe holiday! ~ Joyful