Is anyone else experiencing this??

During the holidays we get so caught up in shopping, family gatherings, and parties that we don’t have a lot of time to think about our problems. Once the tree is down, reality hits. The “holiday blues” are pretty common.

I’ve been feeling the “holiday blues” myself lately. There is so much excitement and build up to Christmas. There are count downs in the stores, shopping, gift making and gift giving, baking, holiday parties, etc. to take your mind off of things. But then poof – in one day it’s all over!

You may feel “let down” from it all being over as life goes back into the monotonous day to day activities. You might feel over tired from over doing it in November and December. And you might even feel over fed from all the holiday parties, dinners, and cookies!

A few of the symptoms of post holiday blues could be:

• Sense of despair and feelings of depression



• Frequent and persistent minor illnesses



• Sleeping too much or too little



• Forgetfulness or indecisiveness

Some ways to deal with the post holiday blues:

• Reach out to others. If you are feeling down, each out to family and friends or a professional. Chances are some of your friends and family may be experiencing the holiday blues as well.



• Exercise or go for walks. Exercise in moderate amounts can make you feel better and healthier. Short walks are good for you as well and the fresh air is refreshing.



• Watch your diet. I’m not meaning diet as in loosing weight, yet diet as in what you eat. Try to eat healthier as it will make you feel better.
  Rest! Try to get back into a good sleep pattern, going to bed around the same time each night and getting up around the same time each morning.



• Treat yourself to something special! If you have gift certificates that you received as holiday gifts, go shopping! Or treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, or go see a movie. If you are short on funds, stay in, light a scented candle, and watch a movie on television or read a good book.



• Acknowledge your feelings. It is ok to feel down, Recognizing and being aware of these feelings is half the battle.

Remember you are not alone! Many others are experiencing the holiday blues too!


Sources:
http://www.wmbd.com/joymiller/post_holiday_blues.htm
http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/disabilities/14230