How to take care of your mental health during the vacations?

Vacation and mental health

Taking a longer break from work and everyday life is an extremely important part of taking care of your well-being. Not only does it help counteract burnout – improves also life satisfaction, positively affects our mental and physical health, increases creativity and productivity.

However, it is worth knowing that traveling can also be associated with unpleasant emotions: stress, anxiety and even depressive states. It can also cause existing mental problems to worsen. According to NHS Scotland, mental problems are one of the main reasons for medical repatriation (i.e., transporting a person back to the country for medical reasons).

So it’s important to consider your needs and prepare properly – before and during your vacation – to minimize the risk of feeling unwell and enjoy your time off and its benefits.

What to do to take care of yourself during the vacations?

New definition of vacation

Vacations are often associated with a trip abroad, to a distant and sunny location. However, this year, flying to warm countries may be difficult due to the state of pandemics and restrictions, as well as the economic crisis and the associated rising inflation and low value of the zloty. Even a vacation in the country can involve considerable costs that we cannot afford. Try to broaden the definition of a vacation: it can even be arranged near where you live – for example, in a rented cottage outside the city – or in your apartment.

Experience, not destination

What do you want to experience during your vacation? Alone or with someone? Instead of looking for a place to go, think about what your intention is. Sure, you want to rest and recuperate, but how? Maybe you dream of settling down in the countryside with a suitcase of books, maybe to try your hand at some sport, maybe, just maybe, to spend time with loved ones. It is these experiences, proximity to others and listening to one’s needs that are the priority here.

Prepare before you travel

Proper pre-trip preparation may cost some energy, but it will save nerves.

If you’re traveling abroad, it’s a good idea to check where you can go in case of an emergency or accident – this is especially important if you’re traveling outside the European Union.

Importantly – if you are taking medications on a regular basis, check whether you need to report it and whether, if so, you can purchase it locally. It’s worth getting insurance that also covers mental health issues.

Write down addresses, print or save maps on your phone, ask to stay in touch with loved ones if you are traveling solo – do anything that can help minimize your stress. Your comfort and safety are paramount here!

Be ready* during the vacations

If you are changing time zones be aware that jet lag can negatively affect your mental health. The timing of medication will change – if you’re worried you might forget to take it, set reminders on your phone.

If you are in therapy, arrange with your therapist if and how you will stay in touch during your vacation.

Back to reality

It’s a good idea to leave yourself a day between going home and returning to work. This will allow you to enter reality more gently. This is the moment to rest after the return trip, sleep off jet lag, but also plan the coming days. You can deal with all the errands and calmly prepare to return to the office.