You’ve probably felt this way after a fantastic holiday: upon returning home, you’re overcome with a sense of gloom instead of joy.
Believe me, it’s not „your fault”; unfortunately, many people experience this. Post-holiday depression is a natural phenomenon, and I’m going to provide some „antidotes” against it.
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Why does post-holiday depression occur?
It even has an official name: post-vacation blues.
Although a trouble-free holiday triggers positive things in everyone, the thoughts of heading home and returning to „normal” life lurk in the last days. Therefore, it’s common to feel a bit melancholic towards the end of the holiday.
After returning home, the „symptoms” of post-holiday depression may surface: sadness, gloom, lack of motivation, listlessness. Of course, these are just short, temporary feelings, especially if we take steps to make the readjustment to our everyday life easier.
Advice against depression
Incorporating positive experiences into everyday life
Especially if we had an active vacation, we enrich ourselves with numerous experiences: different cultures, conversations with people, experiences, etc. These should not disappear without a trace but rather be „integrated into our consciousness”.
Just having a conversation with someone from another culture makes us richer!
Gradual transition
After returning home, don’t dive straight back into work, sports, etc. Instead, return to „life” gradually.
If possible, prepare for your tasks before the holiday, so you don’t have to start from scratch.
Rest if you’ve traveled across several time zones
Those who have returned home from the USA might have experienced jet lag. The time difference of several hours can make readjusting difficult for a few days after arriving back from the west.
Avoid strenuous activities for a few days, and try to get back to the local rhythm as soon as possible!
Be active in the first few days!
Doing nothing is the worst. You’ll have more time to think and reminisce about the great moments of the holiday, which will naturally make you feel down.
Light sports, going to the beach, or meeting up with friends are all good ways to readjust to everyday life.
Cleaning
It’s not a conventional piece of advice, but experts recommend it.
Cleaning your home helps return to the daily rhythm by being active in your own environment. And you’ll also find the right place for the souvenirs you brought home. 🙂
Sharing experiences with friends
Who doesn’t like talking about their holiday while friends listen to their stories?!
This helps relive the positive experiences, and you can also provide useful tips to others, which can be fulfilling.
Plan your next holiday!
It might sound surprising to think about the next holiday as soon as you get home, but it really helps! Exploring a new destination and planning the trip provides new motivation for the times ahead.
