Understanding Post-Holiday Depression
Tips for Coping with Low Mood and Stress after the Holidays
Oct 3, 2008
“Holiday blues” or “holiday depression” are terms commonly used to refer to mental distress occurring during the winter festivals. The term “blues” usually describes mild mental distress, which is common when dealing with life problems. The term “depression” refers to an illness of persistent sadness, and is not a normal reaction to the holidays.
The holiday season is known for the stressors that come with it, such as relationship concerns, financial problems and reflection on previous holidays. For some, the distress will lift when the holidays end, whereas others may continue to feel unhappy and/or stressed. Some may have enjoyed the holiday season, feeling low when it’s over.
Triggers of Post-Holiday Blues/Depression
Possible triggers or reasons for post-holiday mental distress include:
- Loss, following enjoyment of the season and the departing of loved ones.
- Concern, following stressors of the season and possible ramifications of relationship conflicts.
- Weight gain and lack of energy from overindulgence of festive food and drink.
- Financial concerns, such as debt, as a result of overspending.
- New Year’s resolutions that are unrealistic.
Post-Holiday Depression or Mental Distress?
Depression symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Persistent feelings of low mood
- Lack of enjoyment or interest in activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Tiredness
- Sleeping problems
- Changes in appetite
For a diagnosis of depression to be made under the DSM-IV-TR, symptoms of depression have to be persistent and have a significant impact. People experience mental distress in their lives that may not meet the criteria for a mental disorder diagnosis, but this does not mean that their distress is trivial and/or should be ignored.
Coping with Post-Holiday Blues/Depression
Coping strategies include:
- Making healthy choices – choosing healthier foods and getting some exercise will likely play a role in improving mood and energy levels. For those wishing to lose holiday weight, it is wise to stay away from fad diets – the safest and most effective way to lose weight is to do it gradually.
- Making realistic resolutions – resolutions are by no means mandatory, but for those who do wish to make them, it’s important that the goals are achievable. Using the above example of weight loss, a goal to lose 1lb a week is realistic. A goal to lose 7lbs a week isn’t!
- Seeking financial advice – this is important for those who have racked up debt from holiday expenses. Ignoring debt will only make matters worse, and many lenders are amenable to arranging manageable repayment plans.
- Looking at previous patterns – if someone has spent the last three Januaries upset about holiday debts or holiday overindulgence, they should think carefully about these behaviors the next time round. In most cases, these sorts of problems are avoidable, with a bit of work.
When unpleasant post-holiday feelings become persistent and difficult to deal with, it is wise to consult a qualified physician. This is partly because depression can result from some physical illnesses, and is a side-effect of some medications. Physicians will also advise on safe weight loss and exercise.
For more information on holiday blues/depression, including helpful hints on how to manage, read Coping with Depression in the Holidays. For a full list of DSM-IV-TR criteria for depression, visit the Mental Health Today depression webpage.
Sources
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th edition & text revision), published 2000, American Psychiatric Association.
Holiday Depression and Stress, National Mental Health Association, accessed: 3rd October 2008, no author specified.
Post-Winter Holidays: Hibernation or Depression?, PsychCentral website, published January 2006, accessed 3rd October 2008, author: Hartwell-Walker, M.
Pub medic – Warning: Christmas can seriously damage your health, Student BMJ, published: January 2006, author: Gapper, S
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