Post Vacation Depression Is a Real Thing
Here’s How You Can Reignite Your Spark When the Highs of Celebration Fade
I grew up in the crisp, snowy embrace of Michigan but planted new roots in Alabama after finishing college. Leaving my family and close-knit friends behind was anything but easy, but we found solace in an annual ritual—a rendezvous every May in Louisville for the Kentucky Derby.
This event was more than a tradition; it was a lifeline. All year, I eagerly anticipated that whirlwind weekend. The hunt for the perfect dress and iconic floppy hat became my hobby, and I even constructed a paper chain countdown that stretched dramatically across my small kitchen. My roommates weren’t amused, and the trees probably held a grudge against me, but the thrill was worth every colorful ring.
When the Derby weekend finally arrived, it was a kaleidoscope of joy. Horses thundered across the track, extravagant hats bobbed in the crowd, and our nights were punctuated by boisterous laughter, borderline embarrassing karaoke at the VFW hall, and inside jokes that grew richer with every passing year. Yet, even amidst the revelry, I found myself frantically trying to freeze each moment—snapping pictures, scribbling notes, desperate to preserve it all like a firefly trapped in a jar.
But no matter how much I tried, the magic couldn’t be bottled. The drive back to Alabama was a slow, deflating journey where I could almost feel the joy leaking out of me, leaving behind a hollow ache. I scolded myself for being melodramatic; after all, shouldn’t I be grateful for the good times? Yet it often took days to shake off the fog and rediscover my equilibrium.
It turns out, I wasn’t alone. Many people experience a dip in mood after a significant celebration or cherished event. This phenomenon, known as post-event blues or post-vacation depression, describes the emotional slump, sadness, and even fatigue that often follow moments of heightened joy.
“It’s one of those bittersweet truths: the greater the high, the deeper the low can feel afterward,” explains Yvonne Thomas, Ph.D., a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, and grief.
Why Do We Experience Post-Vacation Depression?
The reasons for post-vacation depression vary. For many, events like vacations or reunions act as vibrant departures from the monotony of daily life, giving us something to eagerly anticipate. “These moments offer a spark,” Thomas notes. “When that spark fades and there’s nothing new on the horizon to look forward to, it can feel like a profound letdown.”
Another key trigger is the sense of connection such events foster. Gatherings like weddings, holidays, or reunions often provide deep feelings of joy and belonging. When those connections dissolve back into the rhythm of everyday life, it can feel like an emotional vacuum—a longing for something that has slipped away.
Strategies to Beat the Post-Event Blues
While feeling down after a memorable occasion is common, there are proactive ways to lift your spirits and regain balance. Here are Thomas’s top recommendations:
1. Plan the Next Connection Before Saying Goodbye
The teary airport farewells don’t have to feel so final. Before parting ways, make concrete plans to reconnect—it doesn’t have to be another grand vacation. A simple video call scheduled for the following week can give you something to look forward to and soften the sting of separation.
2. Infuse Joy into Your Daily Routine
Life doesn’t have to feel like a waiting game for the next big event. Sprinkle moments of happiness into your everyday. If you’re a music lover, attend a free concert or splurge on tickets to a show. Nature enthusiasts? Explore a new hiking trail or take an evening drive to soak in the scenery. Whatever brings you joy, make it a part of your week.
3. Create Your Own Celebrations
Who says you need a holiday to celebrate? Instead of waiting for Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day, plan a monthly date night with your partner or a themed dinner party with friends. Small, regular celebrations can bring consistent bursts of happiness.
4. Move Your Body
Exercise is a natural mood booster. Physical activity releases endorphins—the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals. Whether it’s a brisk 30-minute walk or two shorter sessions, moving your body can help ease the emotional heaviness of post-event blues.
5. Lean on Your Support System
Don’t bottle up your feelings. Share your emotions with trusted friends or family members, and ask how they cope with similar struggles. You’ll not only feel less alone but may also gain valuable insights into managing these challenging periods.
When to Seek Professional Help
Feeling low after a joyous occasion is natural, but if symptoms like sadness, fatigue, or lack of energy persist beyond two weeks or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. You may be dealing with more than just post-vacation depression.
Embrace the highs, weather the lows, and remember that joy is always within reach—sometimes, it just takes a little creativity and connection to find it again.
