By Marina Charalambous

OR return to everyday life After a carefree summer it is often accompanied by bad mood, lack of energy and a sense of nostalgia for the moments that have just ended. OR melancholy after the holidays It is a common phenomenon that touches many people when the carefree climate of the holiday is replaced by the responsibilities and rapid rhythms of everyday life. The psychiatrist – psychotherapist Aristotle explains to skai.gr Because we feel that way, how to recognize whether it is temporary or deeper discontent and what techniques can help us adapt more smoothly.

Sorry after the holidays: Why do we feel so and how can we adapt smoothly to everyday life?

After vacation melancholy is a phenomenon experienced by many people after returning from a holiday season. This melancholy is partly a normal reaction after a pleasant break when freedom, relaxation and pleasant holiday experiences are replaced by the well -known routine and responsibilities of life. These emotions are often manifested as mild depressive symptoms, such as bad mood, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating and, in some cases, increased stress. Some people observe an increased sense of nostalgia as they long for the relaxed environment they enjoyed during the holidays. Others may feel overwhelmed by daily responsibilities or sudden loss of meaning as they return to their normal routine.

Why do holidays often create comparisons with our ‘real life’ and how to manage this comparison?

One important reason for the above is the abrupt and intense contrast between these two situations. During the holidays, people temporarily experience a different way of existence, with a personal freedom, they are more focused on themselves, in their desires and needs, more connected to their own people. On the return from vacation, people are confronted with jobs, deadlines, emails, crazy pace and demands. This transition can make normal life look more stressful and demanding. It is not uncommon for individuals to question their life choices, routine or satisfaction from work during this adjustment period, contributing to feelings of dissatisfaction or stress.

But these findings can be either a source of melancholy or a catalyst for personal development. This period can highlight what is missing from daily routine, be it personal time, hobbies, meaningful relationships, creative pursuits or a sense of autonomy and meaning. Holidays shed light on what we long for or missing from our lives. If the inevitable comparisons that arise lead to uncomfortable emotions, this can be an important opportunity for self -knowledge, development and if necessary (and dare) a substantial change.

Can melancholy after the holidays indicate deeper discontent?

Yes, it can sometimes mark more important issues. If the return to normal life causes strong or persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety or fear, it may be a sign of deep dissatisfaction with aspects of career, personal relationships, direction or lifestyle. Instead of oppressing these emotions or just waiting to be subjected to the weight of everyday life, it is useful to approach them with respect – maybe writing in a diary, talking to a psychotherapist or people you trust. Persistent melancholy can be an invitation to evaluate where a change or support needs, instead of something we need to ignore.

For those who fight with melancholy after the holidays, there are several strategies that can help:

First of all, recognize that it is normal to feel some sadness or frustration after their end, without self -esteem. This acceptance allows yourself to experience and process this feeling, which will normally be reduced in one or two weeks.

Reflection: Use this opportunity to think about what you may need to change. We are used to making such thoughts more at the end of the year, New Year’s Eve, but they are just as useful all year long. If you have found that some of your activities or relationships are particularly important and auxiliary on your vacation, you do not need to delay them more (more) into your life.

Establishing a gradual transition to routine, instead of direct assignment of all responsibilities, can facilitate adaptation. If you are making your own schedule, for example, for example, for a few days you can work four hours instead of eight. The integration of pleasant activities – such as hobby, physical activity, cinema – can help restore positive mood and deal with change. Contact with friends and relatives with the programming of small escapes – weekends or one -day excursions – can provide a sense of continuity and adaptation. Consciousness practices, reading self -improvement books and psychotherapy can help with reflection or self -criticism about any reflections on the course of life.

For some, this psychological adjustment may be more difficult and the symptoms are more severe or prolonged. In these cases therapeutic interventions such as psychotherapy can help identify and treat those who continue to burden humans. However, if the symptoms of melancholy persist or worsen and the emotional impact becomes more serious (for example, if there is persistent conspiracy, fatigue, feelings of guilt, inability to concentrate) the search for support for the treatment of depression by a psychiatrist will provide the help that is necessary.