The Dopamine Drop After the Holidays — Explained by a Psychologist (and What You Can Do About It)
Mon Jan 19 2026
In this episode of the podcast, Tony welcomes Jean Hansen from Clarity Healthcare to discuss the phenomenon of post-holiday blues and strategies to overcome them. Gene explains that the excitement leading up to holidays often results in a spike in dopamine, which can lead to a drop in mood once the holiday ends. She emphasises that this feeling is normal and temporary, and offers practical tips for listeners to manage their expectations and pressures as they return to work or study after a break.Gene suggests that individuals should reassess the expectations they place on themselves, particularly in the early weeks of the new year, and to practice self-compassion. She also highlights the importance of scheduling small sources of joy and autonomy into daily routines, as well as the need for organization to ease the transition back to work. The conversation touches on deeper issues such as burnout and the importance of seeking support when feelings of distress persist beyond the initial adjustment period.Take AwaysPost-holiday blues are a normal, temporary response.Adjust your expectations for the first few weeks back.Schedule small joys into your daily routine.Self-compassion is key during transitions.Seek support if feelings of distress persist.
More
In this episode of the podcast, Tony welcomes Jean Hansen from Clarity Healthcare to discuss the phenomenon of post-holiday blues and strategies to overcome them. Gene explains that the excitement leading up to holidays often results in a spike in dopamine, which can lead to a drop in mood once the holiday ends. She emphasises that this feeling is normal and temporary, and offers practical tips for listeners to manage their expectations and pressures as they return to work or study after a break.Gene suggests that individuals should reassess the expectations they place on themselves, particularly in the early weeks of the new year, and to practice self-compassion. She also highlights the importance of scheduling small sources of joy and autonomy into daily routines, as well as the need for organization to ease the transition back to work. The conversation touches on deeper issues such as burnout and the importance of seeking support when feelings of distress persist beyond the initial adjustment period.Take AwaysPost-holiday blues are a normal, temporary response.Adjust your expectations for the first few weeks back.Schedule small joys into your daily routine.Self-compassion is key during transitions.Seek support if feelings of distress persist.