Post-Vacation Blues: What is it and how to deal with it?

 

 

Vacations are a wonderful way to recharge your batteries, relax, and enjoy some time away from the stresses of work. However, returning to work after a vacation can be a difficult transition for many people. The feeling of sadness, lack of motivation, and overall emotional state that follows a vacation is commonly referred to as Post-Vacation Blues.

Post-vacation blues, also known as post-travel depression, can affect anyone, regardless of the type or length of vacation. Symptoms may include feeling tired, irritable, anxious, and unmotivated to return to work or normal routines. It’s normal to feel some level of post-vacation blues, but it’s important to recognize and manage these feelings to avoid prolonged negative effects on your mental wellbeing and productivity, as it can trigger or exacerbate mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, lead to conflicts with colleagues, or a decrease in overall job satisfaction. If these symptoms persist over time, they can lead to burnout, which is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion.

There are several factors that contribute to post-vacation blues, including:

1-    Change in routine: Going on vacation often means changing your daily routine, which can cause stress and anxiety when returning to work.

2-    Disconnect from work: During vacations, you may completely disconnect from work and the responsibilities that come with it. Returning to work can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing.

3-    Lack of control: While on vacation, you have control over your schedule and activities. Returning to work means you must follow a set schedule and adhere to deadlines.

To overcome post-vacation blues, consider the following tips:

1-    Ease back into work: Plan your return to work by scheduling low-priority tasks for the first few days. This will give you time to catch up on emails and other tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

2-    Reconnect with coworkers: Reach out to colleagues and reconnect with them. Having someone to share your vacation experiences with can make the transition back to work easier.

3-    Stay organized: Make a list of tasks and prioritize them to stay organized and on top of your work. This will help you feel more in control and less anxious.

4-    Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating healthy. Engage in activities that make you feel good, such as reading, meditation, or spending time with friends and family.

5-    Express your feelings: Talk to your colleagues or manager. You may find that your colleagues are experiencing the same feelings and talking about it can be a cathartic experience. Your manager may be able to offer support, such as easing your workload during the transition back to work. A mental health professional can also provide you with tools and strategies to manage your emotions effectively.

Post-vacation blues can be a difficult transition to overcome, but with the right strategies in place, you can manage these feelings and maintain high productivity and mental wellbeing. Remember to ease back into work, reconnect with coworkers, stay organized, and practice self-care. By doing so, you can successfully overcome post-vacation blues and continue to thrive in your personal and professional life.