Carnival Come Down: Why You Feel Exhausted After Mardi Gras

NEW ORLEANS, LA FEB. 19 - Mardi Gras is magical. The parades, the music, the food, the late nights, the king cake at the office, the back-to-back social events. For a few weeks, the city runs on celebration.

Then Wednesday hits.

If you are feeling unusually tired, foggy, irritable, dehydrated, or even a little down, you are not alone. What many people experience after Mardi Gras is something we like to call the “Carnival come down.”

At BCHS, we see it every year. And there are real reasons your body feels this way.

Your sleep schedule took a hit

Late nights add up. Even if you only missed a few hours here and there, your body keeps score. Sleep regulates your immune system, mood, appetite, and focus. When it gets disrupted, everything feels harder.

Getting back on track starts with consistency. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Your body will reset faster than you think.

Sugar overload is real

King cake season is no joke. Add in parade snacks and celebratory meals, and your body may be riding a sugar rollercoaster.

After several days or weeks of higher sugar intake, you might feel sluggish, experience energy crashes, or notice mood swings.

The fix is not restriction. It is balance.

Focus on:
• Drinking more water
• Adding vegetables and protein back into meals
• Eating at consistent times
• Reducing sugary drinks

Small adjustments help stabilize your energy quickly.

Dehydration sneaks up on you

Between walking parade routes, warmer days, and celebratory drinks, many people underestimate how dehydrated they are by the end of Carnival season.

Headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and irritability can all be signs.

Water is your best friend this week.

Your immune system is tired too

Large crowds, close contact, shared food, and less sleep can weaken your immune defenses. If you are feeling run down or fighting off sniffles, your body may just be trying to recover.

Now is the time to:
• Prioritize rest
• Wash hands frequently
• Eat nutrient rich foods
• Schedule care if symptoms persist

The emotional drop is normal

There is also a mental component to the Carnival come down.

For weeks, the city buzzes with excitement. Your brain runs on anticipation and adrenaline. When it suddenly slows, it can feel like a letdown.

If you notice low motivation or mood shifts, give yourself grace. Reconnect with routine. Step outside for fresh air. Move your body. Check in with someone you trust.

If feelings linger or worsen, our Behavioral Health team is here to support you.

A gentle reset, not a drastic overhaul

The goal after Mardi Gras is not punishment. It is recalibration.

Drink water. Go to bed earlier. Add greens. Move your body. Breathe.

Your body is incredibly resilient. With a little intention, you will feel like yourself again.

BCHS is here for the reset

If you are feeling more than just tired, whether it is persistent fatigue, illness, stress, or emotional strain, our team is ready to help.

From primary care to behavioral health, we are here to support you through every season in New Orleans, including the week after Mardi Gras.

Call 504.533.4999 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.