Back-to-work blues are getting worse

By Peter Woodman, PA

Last updated at 08:05 26 September 2005


Post-holiday depression is getting worse, according to a poll out today.

As many as 83 per cent of people admitted to suffering from depression and anxiety about returning to work from their summer break this year.

This was an increase on the figure of 72 per cent who suffered post-break blues last year, the survey from photo company Snappy Snaps found.

This year, as many as 36 per cent said they could not concentrate on anything except their holiday when faced with a return to their everyday routine.

When asked how they try to beat the back-to-work blues:

• 58 per cent said they develop and print their holiday photography

• 22 per cent book another holiday so they have something to look forward to

• 11 per cent go for a meal in an attempt to recreate scenes from their holiday

• 9 per cent phone in sick to work, as they cannot face going back.

Londoners are the most likely to suffer from post-holiday depression, with 84 per cent showing symptoms.

Those who seem to get over holidays the quickest are the Scots, with 67 per cent getting the post-break blues.

Psychologist Professor Geoffrey Beattie said: 'This survey does highlight how much of a problem post holiday tension (PHT) has become.

It's natural that we experience some sadness when it comes to the end of our holidays, as they are associated with good times and freedom and we mentally prepare for these for some time.

'However, it is worrying that such a large percentage of people admit to suffering from anxiety and depression, especially because as a nation we all go on a lot more holidays than we used to.

The research also highlights that PHT has become more acute in recent years, due to modern living and expectations.'

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