Post-holiday blues? You're not alone

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Back at your desk after a relaxing week and a long journey, a bunch of tasks piling up before you even turn on the computer? How do you feel? Dizzy? Down? Desperate for a double shot Americano?

Well, there’s a specific term - “post-holiday blues” - that trends on China’s social media platforms as soon as people get back to work after the week-long Spring Festival holiday. It describes the irritability, tiredness and sometimes sadness that many people around the world feel when returning to a normal routine after the holidays.

And such symptoms are particularly prevalent at this time of year in China.

CFP Photo

The Spring Festival holiday is over for most Chinese workers. The week-long break is a time when hundreds of millions of people trek across the country to the comforts of their families and hometowns, spending time with their loved ones away from the pressures of working life.

When they finally get home for the year’s most important national holiday, people put work and study aside, instead going shopping, partying and catching up with family and friends.

Some may stay up all night just to play cards or mahjong, enjoy TV shows or online programs – all without the worry of having to get up early and hurry to the crowded subway.

Chances are many people over-eat as their parents pile up regional dishes and they gorge on the rare opportunity for “a flavor of home.” What’s more, excessive drinking and smoking is common as people kick back and relax.

CFP Photo

“This is not an actual holiday with family in a real sense, but more connected with social engagement,” said Liu Ying, psychologist from Jiangsu Province Mental Health Center.

When the laid-back fun ends, many feel tired and unproductive on returning to their regular routine. And some develop serious symptoms such as nausea, depression and eating disorders.

China’s offices reopened on Friday, and netizens were quick to share how they truly felt online.

“Headache and a sore throat, and I felt very down when forcing a smile on my face in front of others at work.” @tuerduoyu

“It was like I was in a trance all day long, and just couldn’t get things right.” @xslynlczo

“I got tons of emails to deal with right after I arrived at the office.” @jzgjswbr

Going back to work after the holidays is tough, but we are here to help! Below are some steps that might make your return to the office a little easier to cope with.

1. Don’t stay up late. Get back to your original regular sleep schedule. ASAP.

2. Take some exercise, such as jogging and stretching. And don’t use the weather as an excuse to be lazy.

3. Eat some light food, vegetables and fruits. Drop that Americano and other stimulating foods.

4. Try to disconnect from overly demanding work, at least for a short time (keep this tip from your boss though ;).

5. The holiday’s officially over now and it’s time to work – but remember the happy times and plan some nights out to look forward to.

If you still feel the post-holiday blues after two to four weeks, Liu says you shouldn’t be afraid to approach someone and ask for help!

And remember, the holidays will come around again before you know it. No matter how frustrated you are at this moment, we are sure you’ll get back on track next week! ‍