How to Overcome Post Holidays Blues

Holiday blues are feelings of anxiety and stress that occur during the holidays and can be caused by unrealistic expectations or memories associated with the holiday season. After a nice trip, the idea of going back to real life can be extremely depressing. Here is how to suppress those feelings. First, get out of bed early. If you’re feeling down after the holiday season, get out of bed early and go for a walk. Studies show that people who exercise before going to sleep have lower levels of cortisol (a hormone associated with depression) than those who don’t. Exercise also increases serotonin levels, which helps lift the mood. It is also a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. You don’t need to join a gym to exercise. You can simply go outside and run around the block.

Give yourself time to catch up. It is often difficult to go to work the next day after vacation. You are not accustomed to your home and office again. Giving yourself time to catch up on the latest updates is a good idea. Do not rush to complete work tasks; give yourself space to worry and think about the holidays. Bring a vacation gift/souvenir along with you. If you are worried about adjusting back to work, school, or staying home, having a souvenir can make the transition smoother. It reminds you of the fun time you had during vacation.

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Get enough sleep. Even if you feel more rested after a vacation, your body may feel tired. Sleep is important because it helps organize your memories and increases morning productivity. A change in environment can overwhelm you, but a good night’s sleep can improve the situation. Engage yourself with activities that will remove your mind from feeling blue, depressed, or worried. Lastly, take care of yourself. Your mental health is very important, so take care of yourself. It is important to maintain a balance between work and personal life. Take time to relax and spend it with yourself.