Most of us will have experienced feelings of nostalgia and sadness after a memorable trip away, and some may find getting back into normal life a bit of a struggle.
Holidays are often filled with adventure, new experiences and a big dose of vitamin D, so returning home to colder conditions and mounting responsibilities can be overwhelming. Enter the post-holiday blues.
But, what does it mean, and how can we overcome it?
Why do we get post-holiday blues?
“Post-holiday blues can arise in the short term (for usually around three days to two weeks) for some people following time away,” says Kathryn Smith, emotional wellbeing counsellor at Nuffield Health.
“This is not to be confused with clinical depression, but mimics the feelings/symptoms – such as low mood, loneliness, low motivation levels and changes in your sleep pattern or appetite.”
People often go on holiday to escape the mundane reality of nine-to-five life, so returning home after a break full of stimulation can be tough.
“These kind of blues can happen often due to a feeling of loss – not just after a holiday, but also following particular events and times of the year. For example, after Christmas or after a wedding,” explains Smith. “The lead up to these events is full of planning and anticipation of a wonderful time, often with those we love and care about, so feeling down during the coming back to reality is natural.”
However, if the feelings persist for more than two weeks, it might be beneficial to talk to a professional about how you feel in case there is something else going on that they can support you with.
How can we beat post-holiday blues?
Here’s how to help combat that post-trip dip in mood and hold on to some of the feelgood factor from your travels.
1. Get outdoors
Being exposed to fresh air does wonders for the mind.
“Go outdoors and expose yourself to that all helpful vitamin D once you return from your holiday, to keep this mood boost we can get from being out in the sun going,” advises Smith. “We also know movement can lift our mood, so try going for a walk.”
2. Socialise with friends
Returning from holiday can be difficult after spending precious time with loved ones, so make sure you have plans in the diary to look forward to.
“Making plans with friends or family or trying to meet new people once you return from holiday can help combat feelings of loneliness,” says Smith.
3. Try practicing mindfulness
Take some time to breathe and reflect on your thoughts and feelings.
“Try reflecting on what it is that you have found hard coming back to reality, see if there are any changes you could make,” suggests Smith.
Journaling could help you understand your feelings more clearly and may help you gain control over these emotions. It may also reveal whether there are any changes you’d like to implement going forwards, to make ‘normal’ life feel more satisfying.
4. Pamper yourself
Practicing self-care might help you rediscover your confidence and get back to your best self.
“Treat yourself to some of your favourite activities, for instance your favourite meals, or a spa evening at home.” suggests Smith.
5. Get into a good routine
Get back to your normal sleep schedule as soon as possible, recommends Smith. A consistent sleep/wake routine helps reset our bodies and minds after a holiday, and can also help improve our mood.
6. Introduce elements of your trip into your daily life
Implement fun activities from your holiday into your normal routine to inject some excitement into everyday life.
“Cook food at home that you enjoyed on your travels, for instance, or do an activity you enjoyed doing whilst away,” recommends Smith.
“Whilst holidays can be an important break from our daily lives, it’s important to prioritise looking after our mental health at home, rather than using holidays to distract ourselves from it,” she adds. “For further support, contact your GP or access emotional wellbeing services.”
