Chicago Home And Lifestyles – Post Vacation Blues: 3 Tips To Get Back Into Your Routine
Do you ever get home from vacation only to find yourself depressed? Even just a long weekend away can be so much fun that coming back makes your everyday life feel mundane. While the “post vacation blues” usually passes within a week or so, it’s possible to avoid it altogether. Here are some ways to make your return easier.
Have a clean space to return to. Nothing will be more depressing (and anxiety inducing) than coming home and seeing laundry undone and a pile of dishes in the sink. So, make sure your space is tidy and cozy before heading out on vacation. Run the dishwasher, change your sheets, and throw out the trash along with anything in the fridge that might get smelly.
Don’t return to work (or life) immediately. This is easier said than done! But if at all possible, give yourself a day or two to readjust from vacation before returning to work and responsibilities. Getting home from the airport at night when you know you have work or appointments the next day is overwhelming. Try to come back early to have time to decompress, or leave that return week free and as wide open as possible. No errands, appointments or social outings. I don’t even tell anyone I’m back for at least a day!
Try new things and plan ahead. Post vacation depression may be a signal of something that needs changing in your life. If you feel much better in sunny climates and dread the coming winter, it may be a clue to plan a winter getaway or maybe even relocating down the line. Or maybe you really enjoyed the foods or activities you got to try. Tap into it! Invite friends over to try that fun exercise, or learn to cook those international recipes in your own kitchen.
Trying these simple tips can help you get back into your routine without the post-vacation blues taking over. But, if your depression goes on for two weeks or more, and you’re experiencing irritability or trouble sleeping, it might be worth checking with a therapist or doctor. These could be symptoms of a more serious case of depression.
Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago
