Post-holiday blues can be as challenging as the holiday blues in children, adolescents, and adults. A National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) study shows that one in six children between the ages of six and 17 have experienced a mental health disorder each year, while one in five adults experience mental illness each year.
Dallas Smeltser, KCF Counseling Program Manager, says, “Post-holiday blues are usually not long-lasting, and people typically return to their normal selves after a short time. The holidays can be stressful due to shopping, social events, debt, and other pressures. Missing loved ones and thinking about past events can also contribute.” Symptoms of post-holiday blues can include irritability, school refusal and spending more time alone.
Smeltser continues, “Nothing is more important than giving children our time. Children need structure, consistency, and routine.”
