With school and work back in full swing, the holiday season has officially come to an end. While it may be relieving for some, as the holidays are financially demanding and can be extremely stressful and emotionally tolling in more ways than one, the return to regular-life can also be like brashly turning on the light after being in the dark for a while—in other words, it can be exceedingly nerve wracking. 

Students have an even harsher awakening. Having successfully completed their finals before the holidays, the two-week break from school seems like a glorious bite of cake: a long-awaited period of bliss from the daily stressors that surround school. With that break now long behind, it is simply evident that students will be hit with the post-holiday blues. 

This being said, there are many things that can be done to wriggle out of a post-holiday slump. Although simple, these mental health care basics are extremely beneficial. 

Be healthy

With the excess of sugary foods, late-night festivities and lack of exercise that is synonymous with the holiday season, it is imperative that a return to healthier lifestyle practices is assumed after the hubbub of the holidays dies down. Getting a good night’s sleep, regular exercise and a diet rich in nutrients is crucial. By establishing these healthy habits into your daily routine, your mind will easily transition out of the holiday mindest.

Talk!

To get out of any slump, it is important to leave your thoughts behind and interact with others. Talking to friends will not only boost your mood but also provide you with perspectives that may differ from your own, which will further help you break out of your post-holiday blues shell. 

Look forward

While the holidays may be over, the fun is not! Instead of dwelling on what was, think about all of the other great things that 2022 will bring. Maybe you have some big vacation planned, maybe you have a killer New Year’s resolution or maybe you’re getting a pet! Whatever it is, focus on that rather than the events of the past. This will not only help you move forward but also invigorate you for what is to come. 

Read or watch TV

Ah, entertainment! Whether it be the stories nestled within the pages of a book or the stories depicted on a big screen, these fantastical tales are bound to make you smile and forget about your problems at hand. They can also spur motivation and a general lust for life as you long to have your own life experiences mimic the marvelous adventures you read about or see. 

Cook!

What better way to carve your way out of a post-holiday slump than spending your time concocting something delectable and comforting so you can eat away your worries? Of course, this should be done in moderation, but a little junk food never hurts anyone!