Five Signs You've Got Post-Holiday Blues

Contracting a case of the blues is fairly common as the holiday magic wanes and you and your family shift back into your daily routines. We all miss the lights and festivities, but if your sense of loss lingers too long, it may be a sign of a deeper issue.
 

I really love the holiday season, and when I wake up on New Year’s Day, I feel a little sad. The post-holiday letdown makes me think about snowy weather: When the snow first falls, it is sparkling, clean, and evokes bright-eyed, smiling faces. But by the next day, it’s dirty and we are all fed up with it! The post-holidays are just like day-old snow. Overnight, the twinkling lights are gone from homes and stores, the parties are over, grumpy people are returning unwanted gifts, and it’s back to school and work.

I know I’m not alone. Many people feel a bit empty after the holidays. We miss the celebrations, giftwrap, and that two-month-long excuse to cheat on our diets. The fun is over. In fact, even children may experience a post-holiday letdown. These feelings are normal and expected. However, if they linger, or if they feel worse than just a tiny bump in the road, you may need to reach out for support. Post-holiday blues that stick around or get worse may be a sign of Seasonal Affective Disorder (a type of depression that typically occurs in winter) or some other type of depression or anxiety. It is important not to ignore these feelings—in yourself or your child—because they may get worse rather than better. 

Here are five signs that post-holiday-blues may be something deeper.

1. Do you feel sad or have depressed feelings that linger, possibly including frequent crying, feelings of inadequacy, or a sense of hopelessness?

These feelings may be more difficult to recognize in a child because depressed kids can still look happy some of the time, and they are not often able to express their feelings.