Returning from a vacation can bring on negative emotions that affect mood and overall well-being. This is a widely recognized phenomenon often called post-holiday syndrome. It can bring fatigue, demotivation, anxiety, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, lower performance, sweating, and a general sense of weakness.
According to a study by the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine (semFYC), post-holiday syndrome tends to hit younger adults under 45 and usually lasts about 10 to 15 days. If symptoms linger beyond that period, seeking advice from a specialist is worth considering.
Those who face higher risk are workers who struggle to cope with the return. Frustration grows when holidays feel longer than expected, the work environment is unsupportive, job dissatisfaction is high, a sense of worth is low, or relationships with managers are poor, according to Andrea Trujillo, a psychologist with Bluau de Sanitas.
In response, Sanitas experts offer practical guidance designed to ease the transition back to work and restore momentum after a vacation.
Deep disconnect: true rest links directly to emotional, physical, and psychological health. For this temporary downtime to be effective, it is essential to disconnect—avoiding work calls and emails, among other steps.
Think positively: focusing on the positive aspects of work can help navigate routine and recognize personal fulfillment. If the situation feels off, it may be time to assess possible changes.
Restore sleep patterns: a few days before returning, gradually rebuild routines to prevent a jarring shift when back at work.
Understand what is going on: scheduling a kickoff meeting with colleagues at the start of the new term helps everyone stay informed about what happened during time away. Maintaining contact and meeting obligations becomes easier this way.
Update mail and set priorities: post-vacation email buildup is common. It helps to read calmly, rank tasks by importance, and manage workload to avoid unnecessary anxiety or overwhelm.
Additionally, regular exercise and returning to a balanced diet help regain energy, vitality, and mood. Holidays can disrupt nutrition and fitness habits, so restoring them supports overall well-being.
Job change
Even with these expert tips, some workers may feel unmotivated upon returning and find it hard to reengage. In such cases, a person might consider a job change. It is important to pause, evaluate options, and set clear goals. The first step is to research the current market and demand. Once grounded, update the resume and craft a tailored cover letter. Begin the job search with prepared materials, monitor relevant postings, and track applications to those most aligned with individual goals.
Education
Education offers another route to reignite motivation after a vacation. Pursuing courses that align with professional interests, joining regular classes, or enrolling in graduate programs can renew enthusiasm and drive at work.