Two important strategies to overcome end-of-vacation blues

“T-Minus six days before my third year in college starts and I am trying to figure out how to keep the blues at bay. Oh, if I could turn back time.”

Whether it’s the end of a school break or a holiday from work, there’s an undeniable desire to prolong those last few days of freedom away from the burdens of daily responsibilities. We may find ourselves grappling with the end-of-vacation blues, desperately trying to stave off its effects. It’s a different feeling compared to the excitement of planning the vacation. However, as the countdown ends, the weight of impending workload and responsibilities becomes evident, turning much needed rest and recuperation, into what I call D&D (deadlines and demands).

I understand that there’s a transition phase from carefree vacation days to the challenges awaiting us as we return to work or school to hone our skills and knowledge. Along with the blues, mental challenges begin to creep in as we face new tasks and responsibilities. Coping with mental pressure is a natural part of life, and it motivates us to strive even harder. But that doesn’t mean we should keep our feelings bottled up. Finding a strong support system is essential, as these emotions shouldn’t be seen as a sign of weakness. It’s 2023, after all.

To overcome the end-of-vacation blues, I suggest two important strategies: First, embrace mental health discussions with openness. Let’s promote open communication to conquer any setbacks we may encounter. The fear of failure, high expectations, and other adversities can take a toll on us as we prepare for the challenges and workload ahead. Finding a supportive environment where we can comfortably share our thoughts and feelings plays a key role in helping us realize that others might be going through similar struggles. Let’s break the stigma around discussing mental health and prioritize our well-being.

Second, embrace new beginnings and opportunities for growth. College and work life certainly come with their share of challenges, as mentioned earlier. However, they also provide us with exciting opportunities to explore new things and meet new people. Stepping into the unknown allows us to prove, not only to others but also to ourselves, that there are endless possibilities for growth and success. Instead of dreading the challenges, let’s embrace them with optimism and determination.

We all face different challenges as we navigate the demands and pressures of life, but we often overlook the toll they take on our mental well-being. Feeling overwhelmed and anxious may remain unspoken due to the stigma surrounding mental health discussions. Therefore, it’s vital that we prioritize our mental health and conquer these challenges. Remember, great things, like diamonds, are formed under pressure.

So, whether you’re a student embarking on a new college journey, an educator guiding and inspiring young minds, a parent witnessing your child’s growth and transformation, an employee looking forward to Mondays with excitement, or anyone who stumbled upon this article, I hope you all find reasons to embrace the coming days with hope and determination. The future holds endless possibilities for each of us.

Ren Benedicto