After the confetti has fallen on the most magical day of your life, you might feel an unexpected sense of emptiness. While few people talk about it, post-wedding depression is a real possibility for even the happiest of couples. After months, or maybe even years, of planning, anticipation, and the euphoria of the big day, coming back to reality can be unsettling. Here are some strategies to cope with post-wedding blues.
Reflect on Your Memories
The first step in dealing with post-wedding blues is to reflect on your big day. Sit down with your spouse and relive the beautiful memories you created together. Share stories about the day and reminisce about the vows you exchanged and the heartfelt toasts that were given. This reflection not only allows you to bask in the afterglow of your wedding but also helps you establish a deeper connection with your partner.
Stay Connected With Loved Ones
If you're feeling sad after getting married, being isolated from your loved ones can make it worse. Focus on staying connected to close friends and family, especially in the weeks immediately following your wedding.
Host gatherings, attend social events, or simply reach out for a chat or a coffee date. Your friends and family will appreciate continuing to be a part of your life as a married couple, and their support can help you get back on your feet emotionally. After all, your wedding was a celebration of love, and that love can continue to thrive in the days and years to come.
Set Goals Together
Setting goals with your spouse is a great way to distract yourself from the low period after getting married. Whether you want to buy a home, start a family, or travel the world, setting goals can give you something to look forward to. This is a great way to refocus your energy and stay grounded as a couple.
When you create a list of your short and long-term goals, use the SMART acronym to guide you. Each goal should be:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
Create New Routines
Creating new routines is another important strategy when navigating post-wedding blues. A common reason for feeling depressed after you get married is the sudden shift from the extraordinary to the ordinary. If you went on a honeymoon, it might have helped ease the transition for a time. However, it can also add another layer of sadness because then you may deal with post-trip blues too.
As you settle back into your work and life schedule with your spouse, design intentional routines and traditions together. Things like getting up early to sit and have quiet time over coffee or walking your dog together every day after work can quickly become a way to soothe the soul. You can also get festive around holidays and decide on new traditions you want to start as a family.
Practice Self-Care and Rest
You may have pampered your skin before your wedding day, but you probably didn't get a lot of time to practice authentic self-care. Use the time period after your wedding to catch up on things that matter to you, such as moving through your To-Be-Read stack of books and finally learning how to garden.
You can do some self-care activities with your spouse, but you should pursue some things on your own to maintain your sense of independence. By nurturing your own well-being, you'll be better equipped to bring positivity and happiness into your marriage.
If you notice that you're feeling down or blue after your wedding remember that it's a completely normal emotional response that many other people also experience. You are not alone. Talk to your spouse and loved ones as you process how you're feeling, and use these coping strategies to set yourself up for healing and growth.
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