Movies are amazing. The good ones utterly engulf you so that the outside world becomes a distant memory as you enter another dimension that takes you soaring through new adventures.

Then it ends, and if it was moving or powerful, the letdown begins.

I’ve experienced this with books, but the experience is even more potent with movies because everything feels real.

I used to go into depression after watching movies I loved—The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe and any Lord of the Rings movies, especially the first time. After watching Return of the King, I was numb and hardly slept the whole night.

I become so attached to the characters and so enthralled with the story that when the credits start rolling and the first notes of the end song play, the ache begins.

I don’t want it to be over, but it is.

If you’re anything like me, you know what I mean.

Sometimes it’s hard to pull out of the funk and return to reality. Here are some ways to deal with post-movie letdown.

Tip 1: Talk with someone, preferably who watched the movie with you

Conversation is a great way to cure your depression. Go over your favorite scenes, lines of dialogue, jokes, and anything else that will help keep the memory fresh.

Tip 2: Find friends who haven’t watched the movie and rave about how amazing it was

Again, talking—getting your feelings about the movie out in the open—is a cure for many ills, not just post-movie letdown. I’ve found that after watching an awesome movie, babbling on and on about it helps to soften the blow of finishing.

Tip 3: Sit and stare into space, letting your mind processing everything

I’m fond of this one. Nothing like being alone with your thoughts to soothe your melancholy and chill for a while.

P.S. If you’re an extrovert, be alone with your thoughts with someone else.

Tip 4: Force yourself to do something that distracts your mind

• Read a book
• Go out to dinner
• Get together with friends
• Go shopping
• Work on a project

There are hundreds of options. Pick one and go for it.

Tip 5: Lose yourself in social media

Because everyone knows Facebook, Twitter, and all the rest are the best ways to cure any problem in life.

Right…?

Tip 6: Listen to the movie soundtrack

I love soundtracks. They’re incredible, aren’t they? What better way to overcome your letdown than to immerse yourself in the movie score?

The music gives meaning and context to the story, acting as a support pillar does for a bridge. Plus, the rush of the actual movie often drowns out the subtle beauty of the music, so it never hurts to go back and enjoy it without the distractions.

Listening to the soundtrack can keep the memories at the front of your mind while at the same time offering a soothing release from your post-movie gloom.

Tip 7: Duh…coffee and chocolate

Need I say more?

Have you experienced post-movie letdown? Which movies were able to move you so deeply? I would love to hear your thoughts.