Post travel blues: Is it real? How to cope?
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After returning from an amazing trip filled with exhilarating adventures, breathtaking landscapes, delicious foods, and unforgettable encounters, many people find themselves grappling with a feeling of emptiness. On one hand, there is the excitement of recounting experiences and sharing souvenirs; on the other, there is a persistent feeling of void as the thrill of travel fades away. This bittersweet feeling, often known as “post-travel blues”, is a real experience for many. But is this feeling genuine? What causes this feeling and how can we manage it? Let’s dive into the reality of post-travel blues and explore some creative ways to bounce back and embrace everyday life while keeping the spirit of adventure alive.
Is it normal to be sad after travelling?
Yes, it is normal to feel sad after travelling. Many individuals experience “post-travel blues” or “travel hangovers”, which can manifest as feelings of emptiness or longing after coming back home. This sadness often results from the contrast between the joy of travelling and the regularity of daily life. It may also stem from the absence of new experiences and relationships formed while travelling. Accepting these feelings and exploring strategies to manage them can help ease the return to daily life.What is the post-holiday syndrome?
Post-holiday syndrome refers to the feelings of depression or sadness after returning from a vacation. It often involves sorrow or gloom as the thrill of the trip diminishes, along with increased pressure and anxiety about returning to work and daily obligations. Many also encounter physical and mental exhaustion from travelling or the activities engaged during their vacation. Moreover, individuals may sense a disconnection from their regular routines and a desire for the pleasurable experiences they had while travelling. This syndrome is common and can affect anyone, but being aware of it and implementing coping mechanisms can facilitate the shift back to everyday life.Why does it happen?
Post-holiday syndrome develops when the freedom and thrill of holidays contrast with the demands of regular life. When individuals go on vacation, they typically get away from work, deadlines, and stress, which gives them a sense of freedom. Returning to a regular schedule, including work and housework, can take time and effort. Furthermore, interrupted sleep cycles, financial stress following the holidays, and the abrupt shift in pace can all add to feelings of sadness, worry, and fatigue.Symptoms of post-vacation depression
Symptoms of post-vacation depression (post-holiday syndrome) include:- Persistent sadness: Feeling depressed, as if something is missing, even after returning to familiar settings.
- Lack of concentration: Difficulty focusing on work or daily duties after a break.
- Disorientation: Feeling disoriented involves a sense of being misplaced or lost while adapting to your usual schedule.
- Restlessness: Restlessness and irritability can result from anxiety about going back to work or managing responsibilities.
- Low motivation: Low motivation indicates a decreased interest in previously manageable tasks.
- Sleep disturbances: Sleep disruptions can manifest as insomnia or oversleeping as your body adapts to a new routine.
- Fatigue and low energy: Feeling unusually tired and drained after returning from a holiday.
When does post-travel depression go away?
The duration of post-travel depression can vary from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on individual circumstances such as the length and intensity of the trip, emotional attachment to the vacation, and personal life stressors. It typically resolves as individuals gradually readjust to their routine. Engaging in enjoyable activities, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, and planning future experiences can accelerate the transition. If these feelings persist beyond a few weeks, it may be necessary to seek professional advice.Practical ways to beat the post-travel blues
Here are some practical ways to beat the post-travel blues:- Plan your next trip: Even if it's simply a weekend break, making plans for future trips offers you something to look forward to.
- Recreate vacation moments: To recreate the experience, try preparing dishes from the areas you visited or listen to music from that region.
- Stay active: Exercise can improve your mood making it easier to resume daily life.
- Stay connected: Share your trip experiences and photos with friends and family.
- Practice gratitude: Focus on the pleasant qualities of being home.
- Engage in hobbies: Get back into personal projects or hobbies.
- Ease into work: To prevent feeling overwhelmed, return to job activities gradually.
- Maintain travel behaviours: Integrate some healthy or enjoyable behaviours from your vacation into your routine.
- Stay social: Reconnect with friends or organise outings to break the monotony.
- Mindfulness and meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help balance emotions and prevent negative thoughts from taking over.
When and where to get help?
If the post-travel blues linger, it is critical to get treatment. You can begin by speaking with a mental health expert, especially if your mood does not improve after a few weeks. Therapy might help you deal with your emotions and get back on track. Hola Health provides personalised Mental Health Care Plans that include virtual consultations, coaching, and customised solutions for managing post-travel depression. These care plans provide ongoing support to help you adjust to your routine, offering tools like relaxation techniques, self-care exercises, and healthy coping mechanisms to address the emotional slump after travelling.In conclusion
Post-travel blues might feel like a letdown, but they also reflect how rewarding our experiences can be. Instead of getting lost in nostalgia, consider it an opportunity to infuse that same zest for exploration into your daily experiences. By reviewing your experiences, maintaining ties with fellow explorers, and mapping out your next trip, you can keep the thrill alive in your daily life. Celebrate the pleasure of exploration, whether in a distant place or at home and let the memories inspire you to chase new adventures daily!See a GP online within just 15 minutes.
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This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
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Email: support@hola.health
Call 000 for emergency or urgent medical help
Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Call 000 for emergency or urgent medical help.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
Email: support@hola.health
© Hola Health, a brand of Packapill Pvt Ltd