Is it the tryptophan in turkey that leads to holiday exhaustion? It certainly couldn’t be the reason I tend to feel tired until New Year’s. Stay awake until midnight on purpose? You’ve got to be kidding.

Maybe it’s estrogen-related because most women I know experience the same seasonal symptoms.

There are certain physical symptoms of the holidays exhibited in most under-medicated moms. Here are just a few:

Exhaustion – The first physical sign in the western part of the United States. We may not have snow in Los Angeles but we do have plenty of sleep clinics.

Nervousness – did you buy a gift for everyone on your list? If you want to ensure your children’s well-being, then don’t forget the bus driver, the crossing guard or the lunch lady. It may sound overboard but that’s what the holidays are all about, aren’t they? Failure to buy them a gift may be hazardous to your child’s health. But no pressure.

Swollen Abdomen – It would be considered rude not to finish your mother in law’s turkey dinner. It would also be rude not to taste everyone’s dessert. And to get through all of this, alcohol becomes a must. A swollen abdomen is completely normal after one month of over indulgence.

Agitation – Do I really have to sell more candy/wrapping paper for the school fundraiser? I already have a cabinet full from last year! Is my friend really running to the gym? I can’t even make it to the laundry room! If you find yourself ready to snap at friends, family and strangers then be assured you’ve caught the holiday spirit.

Restlessness/Headaches – in most cases you will experience these at any of your children’s winter concerts. Symptoms will mysteriously subside when your own child is on stage. The rest of the performances will be seemingly unbearable. Please remember to wash your hands after such mandatory attendances and whatever you do don’t spread the virus on Facebook!

Don’t worry.  Most often the holidays aren’t fatal. You’ll be lucky to experience extreme mood swings. It’s part of the fun. Besides, the smile on your child’s face will leave you delighted and you’ll do it all again next year.  Perhaps, if you are among the luckiest of our Generation X then you have a rare, functional family, which allows for some pleasant reminiscing about your own childhood. If you are more like me, a latchkey kid from a single parent household then you may find yourself swept into the office of your favorite therapist for some seasonal relief.

Just remember, my friend, ’tis the season to be manic.