Stand-up punchlines aside, “post-wedding blues” are a thing. This is a real issue that requires your full attention. The build-up to your wedding day can be intense and all-consuming. But now, here you are, living through a real — and huge — transition. Things may feel anticlimactic. You may feel an emptiness now that the emotions swirling around the wedding itself have come and gone. There are so many life adjustments to be made.
All of this can add up to feelings of sadness, fatigue, lack of concentration, and more. Left unchecked, post-wedding blues can escalate into full-blown depression — especially for anyone who has struggled with depression in the past.
What Can Cause Depression After Your Wedding?
A few basic reasons are mentioned above, but here are two potential factors to keep in mind:
Going Back to Everyday Life
There was the planning, then the event, and almost certainly, a honeymoon. Now, things may feel like a grind — going to work, doing laundry, and all that. It can feel like quite a letdown.
Related Expenses
In the midst of it all, money might have felt like it was no object. Then the bills start arriving. This can take you to a mental place where “real life” no longer feels like so much fun.
5 Ways to Manage Depression After Your Wedding
1. Practice Self-Care As a Team
When mood swings have you on edge, a powerful source of resilience is self-care. This typically involves:
Daily exercise and physical movement
Consistent sleep patterns
Healthy eating choices
Relaxation techniques and stress management
Best of all, these are commitments you can make as a couple. When self-care becomes a source of teamwork, you deepen your bond and resist the pull of post-wedding blues.
2. Talk About the Future
Remind yourselves that your wedding day was definitely not the pinnacle. You have innumerable episodes of joy and adventure ahead, so why not get busy making plans? Don’t move passively into the future. Pledge together by setting goals and creating new visions. You may always look back at your wedding photos with gratitude, but you can do so from a place of even greater gratitude.
3. Be Present, Too
While you’re having conversations about your shared future, be sure to also talk about the present. How are you feeling and why? How can you support each other? What steps can be taken right now to lighten your load and build positive energy? Some right-this-moment suggestions:
Try something new together
Create your own traditions and rituals
Do things together, e.g. cooking, cleaning, taking walks, etc.
Surprise each other with love notes, warm text messages, and other loving gestures
Another great collaboration idea is to volunteer as a couple. Find causes that inspire both of you and give back to your community. Experiences like this can develop new ways to appreciate your connection.
4. Connect With Others
It’s tempting to believe that each partner provides everything the other partner needs. On the contrary, you must stay connected to the people you love — while also being open to making new friends. Perhaps you’re not into late-night climbing anymore, but there’s nothing stopping you from making plans like hiking, yoga classes, or other interests.
Simultaneously, encourage one another to develop independence. It’s an important part of any relationship to cultivate your own social life and interests. This balance goes a long way in staving off or managing post-wedding depression.
5. Ask For Help
Almost every married couple struggles with post-wedding adjustments. You’re not alone, and you do not have to suffer in silence.
If any of the above resonates with you, I urge you to reach out and set up a free and confidential consultation.
Learn more about Depression Treatment.