Post-Holiday Blues: When the Festive Cheer Fades
The holidays are over, the decorations are coming down, and for many, a sense of relief washes over them. But for some, the post-holiday period brings a different kind of feeling: a deep sadness and a struggle to re-engage with daily life. This is the experience of Esmee, a 29-year-old woman who battles what’s known as post-Christmas depression.
Esmee describes her experience: “Ever since I was young, I have felt very sad and lonely after Christmas,” she says. “I then experience a certain depression that causes me to have little appetite, sleep poorly and prefer to avoid social appointments. Actually, the desire to live for me has simply disappeared after the holidays.I used to think that everyone suffered from such an aftermath, but I now know that I need much more time to enjoy life again. While moast people can get back on track a week after Christmas, I need at least eleven months for that.”
Her struggle highlights a less discussed aspect of the holiday season – the emotional toll it can take on some individuals. the pressure to maintain a festive spirit, coupled with the unavoidable letdown afterward, can trigger or exacerbate underlying mental health conditions.
Seven years ago,Esmee received a diagnosis that helped her understand her experience. She explains, “I now know that there is little I can do about the melancholic feelings I have all year round, except at Christmas. My psychiatrist advises me to always have a lit Christmas tree in the house and to light it at least eight times a day ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ by Mariah Carey. This is how I try to get through thes 363 days.”
Esmee’s story underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing post-holiday depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with similar feelings, seeking professional help is crucial. Numerous resources are available to provide support and guidance during challenging times.
Post-Holiday Blues: When the Festive Cheer Fades
the holidays are over, the decorations are coming down, and for many, a sense of relief washes over them. But for some, the post-holiday period brings a different kind of feeling: a deep sadness and a struggle to re-engage with daily life. This is the experience of Esmee, a 29-year-old woman who battles what’s known as post-Christmas depression.
Esmee describes her experience: “Ever since I was young, I have felt very sad and lonely after Christmas,” she says. “I then experience a certain depression that causes me to have little appetite, sleep poorly and prefer to avoid social appointments. Actually, the desire to live for me has simply disappeared after the holidays.I used to think that everyone suffered from such an aftermath, but I now know that I need much more time to enjoy life again. While most people can get back on track a week after Christmas, I need at least eleven months for that.”
Her struggle highlights a less discussed aspect of the holiday season – the emotional toll it can take on some individuals. The pressure to maintain a festive spirit, coupled with the unavoidable letdown afterward, can trigger or exacerbate underlying mental health conditions.
Seven years ago, Esmee received a diagnosis that helped her understand her experience. She explains, “I now know that there is little I can do about the melancholic feelings I have all year round, except at Christmas. My psychiatrist advises me to always have a lit Christmas tree in the house and to light it at least eight times a day while listening to ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ by Mariah carey. This is how I try to get through these 363 days.”
Esmee’s story underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing post-holiday depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with similar feelings, seeking professional help is crucial. Numerous resources are available to provide support and guidance during challenging times.
