She Strengthens

Reclaiming Reality: 8 Expert-Approved Tips to Ease Post-Vacation Blues

The thrill of adventure has worn off, and the harsh reality of daily life has set in. The “post-vacation blues” or “vacation hangover” – a common phenomenon that can leave you feeling drained, demotivated, and struggling to adjust to the routine of everyday life.

Give Yourself Time to Recharge

Pam Costa, a Silicon Valley-based holistic psychologist, emphasizes the importance of building a buffer between the end of your vacation and the restart of work. Aim for a 2-day transition period to recover from the vacation high and slowly adjust back to your normal life.

Manage Your Return to Work

Courtney Glashow, LCSW, a psychotherapist and founder of Anchor Therapy LLC, suggests blocking off your calendar to avoid meetings and giving yourself time to catch up on emails. This will help you ease back into your workload and reduce stress.

Get Your Life Back on Track

Unpack and do laundry as soon as possible to avoid the stress of looming chores. Consider getting your groceries delivered for the week to save time and energy. Don’t forget to restock your fridge and pantry to maintain a sense of normalcy.

Return to Your Healthy Habits

Nosh as normal to improve your energy levels and regain a sense of routine. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to combat dehydration and lingering fatigue.

Rekindle Intimacy

Getting back to your regular routine can also mean rekindling intimacy with your partner or yourself. A 2017 study found that couples who maintained a healthy sex life were more engaged and happier at work.

Plan for Future Pleasure

Before leaving your vacation, make sure you have a plan for future pleasure. Whether it’s trying a new hobby, planning a night out with friends, or scheduling a relaxing bath, having something to look forward to can help alleviate post-vacation blues.

When the Blues Won’t Go Away

If you’re still struggling to adjust after two weeks, it may be time to seek professional help. A trained mental health expert can help you work through your feelings and develop a plan to overcome post-vacation depression.

By incorporating these expert-approved tips into your post-vacation routine, you can ease the transition back to reality and maintain a sense of excitement and adventure in your daily life.