Vacations usually equate to relaxation, carefreeness, new experiences, good mood and satisfaction. But what really happens when the holidays are over, and it is about time to return to your daily routine? There are many people who love being occupied -we could refer to them as “workaholics”- and usually feel glad to go back to their everyday “routine”. On the other hand, most people recognize that going back to daily life cannot be avoided, thus they choose to keep in mind the good memories and take comfort in the fact that, at least, they had the opportunity to take a break and recharge their batteries! However, some people struggle with the idea of getting back to responsibilities, experiencing the so-called: Post-Vacation Depression Syndrome.
PVDS: Definition & Symptoms
“Post-Vacation Depression Syndrome” describes the temporary emotional state that is often experienced by people returning home mainly from multi-day holidays (research studies demonstrate that the longer the trips last, the more intense the syndrome can be). The most common symptoms include intense stress, anxiety, discomfort, as well as melancholy. Many people, however, also experience palpitations, dizziness, insomnia, reduced or increased appetite for food and lack of energy. Usually, they last only for a few days, although -in some cases- it may take a few weeks before they completely disappear.
“Post-Vacation Depression Syndrome”, year after year, affects a lot more people, especially those who reside in large urban centers. Returning to the city from holidays may prove to be an extremely hard period, a test of endurance for psychology. In addition, people who struggle with changes in their personal lives, those who do not derive much satisfaction from their work or do not find a special meaning in their daily lives, as well as people who have not formed strong personal relationships or lack of a supportive circle of people, are also susceptible.
PVDS: Tips to cope with
The end of vacations may not be an easy or joyous event, however certain alternations in the way we look at things (change of prospect) will protect us from facing Post-Vacation Depression Syndrome. Try the following tips:
Get back home a few days earlier: Going straight from the beach to work is not a good idea. Plan to return a day or two days earlier to provide yourself with the chance to adapt. Gradually reset your daily life schedule, go to bed on time, eat healthy and clean or organize your home.
Include pleasant activities in your daily routine: Focus on the good aspects of being back in town; think about going out with friends, watch your favorite movies at the cinema, visit a beauty salon. In other words, try to incorporate into your daily routine things that make you happy. You may also plan weekend getaways or single-day trips.
Banish melancholy with exercise: Physical activity can be particularly effective in relieving melancholy, since exercise triggers the production of endorphins: hormones that block the perception of pain or stress, while also increasing the sense of well-being.
Plan your next holidays: Make plans or start organizing your next trip so as to have something to look forward to with joy and anticipation.
In conclusion, it is worth mentioning that there is nothing better than enjoying life throughout the year. Thus, do not hesitate to identify the things or conditions that dissatisfy you and make changes. Finally, it is important to keep in mind that there are no “bad” emotions. Give yourself time, “embrace” your feelings -whether it is melancholy or sadness-, let them ease and get ready for all the wonderful moments that every part of our life holds within it!
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