THOSE HOLIDAY BLUES

By Gail Carlson, MPH, Ph.D., University of Missouri-Columbia

	True or false, feeling "let down" (sad, tired, lacking in energy) after the holidays is usually a sign that the holidays were disappointing, unpleasant, or did not meet expectations?  Many people will answer "true" when asked this question. The holidays can be a time of joy, fun, and excitement. They can also be tiring, disappointing and tension packed. People sometimes feel "blue" or let down during or immediately after the holidays. It is easy to assume that these feelings are a sign that the holiday did not go well; that changes need to be made. That might be one explanation. However, that "let down" feeling may be nothing more than your body's need to relax and recuperate after a very busy and hectic schedule.