What are the possible reasons for people feeling depressed after the holiday season? Why does being alone exacerbate these feelings?

Many people (with some exceptions) greatly enjoy the buildup for the holiday season. They were gathering for a beautiful Thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings and cheerful visits from out-of-town family and friends. The (hopefully) anticipated winter storms add a coziness when we sit in front of the blazing fire in the fireplace as the logs hiss and snap. Gift buying is pleasurable, especially on Amazon, Walmart, and other websites. Receiving the orders adds to the feeling of festivity. Dark and cold, cloudy days enhance the pleasures of staying home decorating the house and the Christmas tree. The dark nights and the captivating glow of outdoor Christmas lights (especially when driving down sleepy streets) add to the excitement. Then there’s the enjoyment of wearing/ playing with/ and appreciating our Christmas gifts for the week approaching the new year and watching TV to witness the ringing in of the new year.

But then, on the day after ringing in the new year, the joy and happiness of the holiday season comes to a screeching halt. It’s time to go back to school or work, etc. The bottom falls out as we say goodbye to the holiday festivities, the sudden parting of company with loved ones, and getting into that rut of the often depressing mainstream of life. The joy of interacting with friends and family evaporates, and depression sets in as we face the grim prospect of facing a new year if we aren’t prepared to do so psychologically. The feelings of loneliness set in and exacerbate feelings of depression when we don’t feel ready to face reality again.