It might be the most wonderful time of year, but what happens when the holiday season finally comes to an end? Although it’s common to experience short-term bouts of sadness or disappointment after such a joyous occasion, lingering symptoms could be a sign of something more. Discover how Presidio Home Care Aides can partner up with your care team to help you and your loved ones avoid the post-holiday blues.
What are the post-holiday blues?
Although seasonal affective disorder (aka the “winter blues”) gets much more attention during the colder months, experiencing the post-holiday blues isn’t uncommon for older adults. Your family member might feel isolated from other loved ones, have limited mobility or lead a less busy lifestyle. The post-holiday blues can cause insomnia, low-energy, irritability, lack of focus and anxiety.
What triggers it?
The general consensus among experts is that post-holiday blues can be attributed to an adrenaline comedown. Princeton, NJ-based clinical psychologist, Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, suggests that the abrupt withdrawal of stress hormones after a major event, whether it’s an important deadline or the holidays, can have a profound impact on our biological and psychological well-being.
When are the post-holiday blues something more?
It’s important to remember that the post-holiday slump won’t stick around forever.
However, if you notice your loved one’s symptoms remain the same or worsen, it might
be time to consult with a professional.
What you can do
The post-holiday blues can look different for everyone. Sometimes, it’s simply a matter
of establishing better habits or staying in contact with loved ones. Here are a few ways
to help you and your loved one keep the blues away.
Stay active and eat healthy. Physical activity, along with a nutrient-dense diet, no matter what time of year, can improve the body and mind. Completing low-impact exercises for 30 minutes a few times a week should help with maintaining a healthy body weight and improving sleep. Experts consistently recommend adopting these health cornerstones to boost mood and manage depression symptoms.
Learn something new. For many older adults, sitting idle only worsens their anxiety and depression. Learning a new skill or taking on a new hobby could offer the challenge they might need to prevent negative thinking, discover an activity and meet new people.
Get out and about. Just because the holidays are over, doesn’t mean your loved one can’t see family and friends. Your loved one can invite them over, plan trips and reunions, or take a brisk walk with your neighbors.
Volunteer. By helping others, your loved one can direct their attention to a greater cause, and the organization they choose to help benefits from their time and efforts. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities available for all mobility levels; your loved one can volunteer in the community or virtually, from the comfort of his or her own home.
Acknowledge feelings and talk to someone. Half the battle is accepting the difficult feelings after such a joyous time. Be kind to yourself and seek the support you want and need. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help.
Drink responsibly. The holidays are the time of year where overindulgence is common. However, excessive drinking can intensify negative emotions, making them more difficult to manage or interpret.
Presidio Home Care and The Post-Holiday Blues
Whether it’s providing companionship, driving them to appointments or keeping them motivated during exercise, Presidio Home Care Aides are here to help you and your loved one achieve optimal health in all seasons.Contact US today to learn more.