How to get over the post-holiday blues
But according to new research, the post-holiday blues lasts for a average of five whole days (even though it might feel longer). And it takes about four days to reach our usual levels of productivity at work after a holiday.
The study of 2,000 workers, conducted by British Summer Fruits, also found that one in 10 took 10 days to get back into full work mode.
Nearly a fifth admitted to making mistakes on important work and missing deadlines. One in six spend more time on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram than doing actual work after a holiday.
The study also found that with beach body fears behind them, a third of people gorge on junk food for nine days after a holiday, with only a quarter trying to eat healthily to combat the blues.
Nutritionist Dora Walsh said: “Low mood and low concentration are key symptoms of the post-holiday blues but a snack of sweets will only exacerbate this by giving people a sugar high and an almighty crash soon after.”
Healthy snacks like nuts and fruit, particularly berries, can help combat the post-holiday slump.
Walsh said: “Research conducted this year found that berries can support brain function by helping to prevent mental decline. They’re high in resveratrol polyphenols which keep our blood flowing to the brain – essential when trying to catch up on a week’s work and battle the dreaded email inbox. Good blood flow increases alertness which can improve cognition and brain function.”
Apparently Brits aren’t as sympathetic about colleagues’ post-holiday plight. Rather than offer support, more than a third would let a colleague suffer and two fifths would tell them to pull themselves together. Too right.
To get over the post-holiday blues Walsh suggests having 20 minutes sunlight a day when you’re back at work to boost serotonin levels, staying hydrated and breathing deeply at your desk to boost alertness.
Or you could book your next holiday pronto.
