Post-Holiday Depression: Neuroscientists Explain the Causes and How to Cope with It.

According to ТСН: The festive joys have come to an end, and along with them, the elevated mood and energy have vanished. Many people face a real condition known as post-holiday depression.

This topic has been discussed by psychologists and psychotherapists. According to Dr. Jolanta Burke, the post-holiday mood drop is related to the functioning of the reward system in the brain and dopamine levels.

“Post-Christmas depression is closely linked to dopamine,”

she explains. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in motivation, pleasure, and reward. It is released when we receive something pleasant, as well as when we anticipate it.

According to Dr. Burke, the level of dopamine typically rises before Christmas due to the anticipation of holidays, socializing, and special events.

“This anticipation gives the brain multiple doses of ‘reward’.”

Returning to Routine

However, after the holidays, these rewards disappear.

“Returning to routine along with shorter days and fewer social plans can lead to a temporary drop in dopamine levels,”

she notes.

“People describe this as feeling down, lacking motivation, or being unable to enjoy things that previously brought pleasure.”

Another important hormone that changes during this period is oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” which is responsible for social bonds and emotional attachments.

“Its level rises when we feel closeness, for instance, when parents hug their child, strengthening feelings of trust and attachment,”

adds Burke. After the holidays, when many people spent time with family and friends, the sudden shift to isolation can trigger feelings of loneliness and depressed moods.

Negative Impact of the Holiday Season

The holiday season also disrupts the usual routine: late bedtimes, alcohol consumption, decreased physical activity. This can create short-term spikes in dopamine but often leaves people exhausted at the start of the new year.

Dr. Burke advises starting the day with natural light, taking short walks during lunch, and increasing physical activity – even just walking instead of using public transport. Physical activity stimulates the circadian rhythm, improves sleep, and enhances mood.

Social Connections are Important

Family therapist Anjula Mutanda emphasizes that maintaining social connections is crucial even for those who feel drained after the holidays.

“Being around others during separate activities – like reading or watching TV – helps to feel connected without having to engage in constant communication,”

she explains.

Dr. Donald Grant recommends setting small realistic goals, practicing mindfulness, and focusing on daily habits to reduce stress and regain a sense of achievement.

“The new year provides an opportunity to reassess the daily routine, but it doesn’t mean that everything needs to change at once,”

he adds.

Experts emphasize that post-holiday mood drops are usually temporary and do not indicate clinical depression. This is a normal brain response to changing stimuli and returning to ordinary life.

Furthermore, it is important to remember that the post-holiday period can serve as a starting point for new achievements. According to specialists, it is worth allowing yourself time to adapt and, gradually returning to the usual rhythm, paying attention to your own needs and condition.