The January Blues. Why People Feel Low After Christmas, & and How Therapy Can Help.
- eddie mills
- Jan 6
- 2 min read
Understanding the January Blues
For many people, January can feel unexpectedly heavy. After the colour, connection, and stimulation of Christmas, the return to routine, darker mornings, and quieter social calendars can leave people feeling flat, unmotivated, or low. This experience often called the January Blues is a very real emotional response to change, exhaustion, and emotional overload.
Financial stress, disrupted sleep, reduced daylight, and unmet expectations for a “fresh start” can all intensify feelings of low mood, anxiety, or emotional numbness. When everyone else seems to be “back on track,” it can be easy to turn inward with self-criticism or shame for not feeling better yet.
How Counselling and Psychotherapy Can Support You
At Clarina Counselling & Psychotherapy, I work with people who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck particularly during transitional periods like January. Feeling low does not mean something is “wrong” with you, it often means something in your life needs care, attention, or understanding.
I use evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients explore what is happening beneath the surface.
CBT helps identify and gently challenge unhelpful thought patterns that fuel low mood.
Mindfulness supports grounding in the present moment, especially when the mind is caught in worry or self-judgment.
ACT focuses on acceptance, emotional flexibility, and moving toward what truly matters even when motivation feels low.
If January is feeling harder than expected, you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling can help you make sense of your experience and find steadier ground. Get in touch today to arrange a confidential appointment and take the first step toward feeling more supported.
Practical Details
Garrett Moriarty Psychotherapist
📍 20 Cill Chaoide,
Clarina, Co. Limerick,
V94 R3HP
📞 085 124 9768
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Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday, 9:15am – 2:00pm
(In-person and online sessions available)
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