Fatigue, trouble sleeping or a feeling of sadness or apathy are just some of the symptoms of this condition, which can last anywhere from two or three days to two or three months. The primary warning signs of this condition include a lack of energy, which translates into fatigue and trouble sleeping, difficulties concentrating and making decisions, a feeling of sadness, anxiety or apathy and lack of motivation. To prevent this syndrome from becoming a serious problem, Dr Alonso-Stuyck recommends tackling it right from the start and seeking the help of a psychologist if necessary.

 

Dr Alonso-Stuyck clarifies that, while “it is impossible to talk in terms of profiles that are more prone” to post-holiday syndrome, certain factors that may increase the possibility of suffering from it have been detected, “such as unhealthy habits with regards to sleep, diet, physical activity and recreation”. 

 

To avoid post-holiday syndrome and make the return to work more bearable, the expert recommends “coming back from holiday a few days before returning to work to give yourself time to adapt, devise a plan for getting any accumulated tasks done and manage your time realistically”. It is also important “to create a development plan that factors in the personal, family, occupational and social aspects of our lives” and “learn to relativise, with good humour, the importance of what we do”.