This problem may affect over 40 percent of Poles. It appears right after the holiday
May weekend is behind us. Theoretically, we should be more relaxed after the holiday than before it. In practice, things vary. Often, after taking a break from work, we experience a serious problem that makes everyday functioning much more difficult. Check if this applies to you too.
Post-holiday stress (tension) syndrome is, contrary to appearances, a very common condition. It may appear a few days before the planned end of the holiday or just after returning to work. Interestingly, it applies not only to people who treat work as a chore. It is also often faced by enthusiasts who carry out their tasks with real pleasure. See what to do to reduce the risk of this problem.
How to recognize post-holiday stress syndrome?
The symptoms are similar to those of other stress reactions. The most frequently reported symptoms include headaches and dizziness, sleep disturbances, hand tremors, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat and digestive system problems (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, etc.). Somatic reactions (related to the body) are often accompanied by psychological symptoms. These include:
-
mood swings,
-
apathy,
-
irritability,
-
anxiety,
-
difficulty concentrating,
-
problems with cognitive functioning.
It is worth noting that each person reacts to stress differently. Its symptoms may vary in severity. It's all a matter of individual immunity. It is also worth noting that the felt tension mobilizes some people to take action, while it paralyzes others. It deprives them of energy. It does not allow you to function normally and perform daily duties.
How to deal with post-holiday stress syndrome?
There are several simple ways to reduce the risk of post-holiday stress syndrome. If possible, return to work midweek. Thanks to this, you won't have to wait too long for the weekend and you will recharge your batteries faster. Create a to-do list and set priorities. Don't assume that you will deal with all outstanding matters in one day. Moreover, psychologist Paulina Ziomek-Wołczkiewicz advises in one of her blog entries not to set the bar too high:
“Give yourself space to talk to your colleagues over coffee and share your holiday impressions. Don't stay at work late into the night and don't do overtime. Switching from full relaxation mode to work mode (…) is a shock for the body. Don't deprive him of the balance developed during the holiday,” he suggests.
It is worth emphasizing that stress should not be underestimated. Strong tension can lead to many health problems. It promotes the occurrence of various types of diseases, including heart attack, stroke, hypertension, obesity, diabetes and cancer. It also significantly reduces the effectiveness of everyday functioning.
