While the December holidays are not exactly over, the madness and build up to it all sorta is. Once we say goodnight to Christmas, there is a sadness that often bubbles up after all the hub-bub has settled down. Family and friends say farewell, and it may be months or even a whole year before you all have time for another cheerful reunion. Or, perhaps your family reunions are not so cheerful and leave you in a state of stress when it all winds down.

What are the holiday blues? Simply a sadness that can occur at any holiday but most often during the December holidays. So, what exactly causes this period of sadness? There can be many causes but certainly the most common are the following:

• Increased stress
• Fatigue
• Unrealistic expectations
• Inability to be with family
• Memories of past holiday celebrations
• Over commercialization
• Change in diet
• Change in daily routines

If you think you may be suffering from the holiday blues, read through these following symptoms:

• Headaches
• Inability to sleep or sleeping excessively
• Change in appetite (increased or decreased)
• Agitation
• Anxiety
• Excessive or inappropriate feelings of guilt
• Diminished ability to think clearly or concentrate
• Decreased interest in activities that normally bring you pleasure such as:
  food, sex, work, friends, hobbies, entertainment

Usually, a bout of holiday depression is nothing to be too concerned about. The holiday blues typically only last a few days, or maybe a week. However, it is possible for a severe depression to set in, in which case you should seek medical assistance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Psychological Association, and the National Mental Health Association all suggest tips for preventing or easing the holiday blues.

If you are experiencing holiday blues the following tips may bring you relief: