by B. Taylor

Created on: January 01, 2009   Last Updated: January 02, 2009

The Holidays are times of high emotions, high expectations, and high stakes. We expend a large amount of energy preparing for the Holidays. For some of us it is over much too quickly, for others it is a disappointment. Maybe somebody didn't get what he wanted for Christmas, or somebody's loved ones got together and dug up old arguments. Sometimes people simply eat too much sugar, and that is enough to cause an emotional slump. There are many reasons that people experience post-Holiday blues. There are also many ways to prevent post-Holiday depression.

During the Holidays, and any special events in life, it is nice to take some pictures. I don't advocate living behind the camera, but I do think its a good idea to take some photographs to preserve and cherish memories. Exchanging copies of photos with other like-minded folk is great because then everybody can have an album to look at when they start to miss the Holiday cheer. Looking at pictures can bring back the warm, positive feel of the fun event.

Some people like to shop, and others don't. For recreational shoppers, a great way to avoid post-Holiday depression is to gather up those gift cards and gift certificates that were received, and hit the mall! Bringing a like-minded shopping friend makes the adventure more fun. What better way to avoid depression than a companion to share an activity with.

For non-shoppers, it makes sense to take time out for a little post-Holiday relaxation. Drawing a nice hot bubble bath and reading a good book while you soaking can be just what the doctor ordered. Maybe the book was a Christmas present!

It sounds trite to say it, but feelings of ill health and depression can be brought on by eating too much sugar and drinking too much alcohol! (Alcohol converts to sugars in our systems, and too much sugar can cause feelings of depression. That is why alcohol and Holiday sweets together can be a depressing combination.) I am not advocating abstaining from celebratory food and libations; I am only pointing out that it is better to recognize these facts and act on them before spending the day after the Holidays in bed, feeling sick, and missing the Holidays. Drinking plenty of water and eating healthy foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables will help cleanse the body of all the excess sugars and fats.

While I am on the subject of diet, of course I am going to point out that exercise helps to cure depression, whether it is post-Holiday or not. At the very least, taking the time for a nice walk is a nice way to fend off the blues. Weather permitting, fresh air is best. But if walking outside is not feasible, and the mall atmosphere is bearable, walking around the mall, especially with a friend, sustains the need for exercise and companionship. (May as well bring the gift cards, too!)

Following this advice will help people avoid the post-Holiday blues. Yes, it is possible to enjoy both the Holidays and the days right after!

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