As September ends, those who were fortunate enough to enjoy a summer break from work now face the reality of resuming their regular routines, whether it is office work or school. 

The upcoming months bring shorter days, less daylight, and colder weather, leaving the warmth of summer as a distant memory.

It is important to understand that these changes can profoundly affect our mental state, influencing how we navigate our daily lives. However, there are strategies we can employ to cope with this homecoming sadness. 

Why Do We Feel More Tired When We Return from Vacation? 

Nowadays, stress seems to haunt us regardless of the time or situation, even when we return from a vacation that should ideally be a time of relaxation and renewed energy. This phenomenon is referred to as “return sadness,” a genuine condition characterized by various symptoms that indicate difficulties in readjusting to our daily activities.

Common symptoms experienced by individuals suffering from return sadness include:

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Low mood
  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Crying spells
  • Lightheadedness

That being said, is it possible to also experience a newfound energy at the same time?

Vacations should be an opportunity to recharge our batteries, but societal expectations and obligations can often overshadow this objective. 

It is essential to choose destinations and activities that offer an alternative to the fast-paced nature of our everyday lives, providing a sense of rejuvenation without completely disrupting our established routines. Finding the right balance is crucial for a smoother transition back to regular life. 

Furthermore, vacations should not be seen solely as a way to escape reality. Instead, they should be considered an opportunity to reconnect with ourselves and understand our desires. When we take a break from work, it allows us to reflect on our daily routines and consider necessary changes to improve:

  • Our overall well-being
  • Relationships
  • Time management

Stress Upon Returning: What Factors Contribute?

Returning home can also bring stress, depending on how the vacation went and the expectations placed upon it, often idealized as an escape from the challenges of daily life. Consequently, the return is perceived as burdensome to navigate, whether within the family, at work, or school.

Instead of simply enduring this return stress, one can delve deeper into identifying and addressing the underlying causes. At times, tensions accumulate over an extended period, stemming from:

  • Unfulfilling jobs
  • Unsatisfactory relationships
  • Hectic schedules
  • Frustrating routines
  • Complex family dynamics 

It is crucial not to underestimate these issues, as they can pose a threat to:

  • Mental health
  • Physical well-being
  • The overall quality of life

How to Best Cope with Returning Home 

Effective time management is the most crucial aspect of dealing with return stress. Here are some strategies to consider. 

Take care of your body and mind:

  • Prioritize maintaining a healthy sleep-wake routine and reintroduce a nutritious diet with seasonal fruits and vegetables;
  • Engage in enjoyable physical activities, preferably outdoors, as they contribute to a positive mood and effective stress relief.

Ease back into routines gradually:

  • Instead of keeping an unsustainable pace, set small goals and prioritize tasks based on their level of importance;
  • This approach allows for a smoother transition and helps avoid unnecessary stress.

Extend the rejuvenating effects of vacations:

  • Keep the memories of enjoyable moments alive and strive to incorporate similar experiences into your daily life whenever possible.

Prioritize self-care:

  • Carve out moments of relaxation amidst busy periods;
  • Dedicate time to indulge in your passions and activities that bring pleasure and well-being.

Nurture relationships:

  • Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals can significantly aid in coping with reentry;
  • Foster positive relationships with colleagues to create a harmonious work environment;
  • Make sure to spend quality time with family and friends to strengthen connections.

Reflect on your lifestyle:

  • Periodically pause and assess whether your current lifestyle truly satisfies you and promotes your mental and physical well-being;
  • Question the importance and necessity of specific tasks or commitments.

Remember, even small choices hold value as they contribute to satisfying time management. Remind yourself that you can shape and control your daily routines.