Returning to work exhausted after a vacation

Understanding the Vacation Drain: The Neurodivergent Perspective

Vacations are often seen as a time for relaxation and rejuvenation, a break from the daily grind that allows individuals to recharge and enjoy new experiences.

However, for neurodivergent employees, the reality can be quite different. The very elements that make vacations enjoyable for many can also lead to significant stress and exhaustion for those who experience the world differently.

The Impact of Routine Disruption

One of the primary challenges for neurodivergent individuals during vacations is the disruption of their usual routines. Many neurodivergent people thrive on predictability and structure. When they are suddenly thrust into a new environment with altered schedules, it can lead to feelings of anxiety and discomfort. - **Changes in Daily Patterns**: The shift from a predictable work routine to a vacation schedule can create a sense of chaos. For example, waking up at different times, eating meals at irregular hours, or engaging in spontaneous activities can be overwhelming. - **Increased Decision Fatigue**: Vacations often come with a barrage of choices, from where to eat to what activities to participate in. This can lead to decision fatigue, making it difficult for neurodivergent individuals to enjoy their time away.

Sensory Overload in New Environments

Traveling often exposes individuals to a multitude of sensory stimuli that can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent employees. Think about it, airports are busy and noisy. A different country is full of different smells. For those with sensory sensitivities, this can lead to heightened anxiety and discomfort. And then there is being in close quarters with others 24/7. Being around family or young children for extended periods can also be draining, even if you want to be there at the same time. The constant need for social interaction, especially in unfamiliar settings, can lead to exhaustion. It's not just one thing, it's a compounding effect.

An Enjoyable Vacation, can still be Draining

While vacations can be challenging for neurodivergent employees, there are strategies that can help make the experience more enjoyable: Planning ahead and creating a routine when at the destination definitely help. However they cannot fully remove the sensory overwhelm. Also it doesn't really help if you're not communicating your needs. This can help set expectations and foster understanding. It is hard to ask for accommodations however. Many neurodivergent people are people-pleasers and just want to fit in. And neurodivergent people also are used to masking; hiding behaviour to appear more normal and fit in. Sometimes they've been doing this for so long, they don't even realise they are doing this. Ultimately they also can't fully control the environment and sensory overload is still likely. A fun vacation can still be draining. A vacation full of very much wanted new experiences, can still mean they crave to be back in their own routine.

Conclusion

While vacations are meant to be a time of joy and relaxation, it’s important to recognize that for neurodivergent employees, the experience can often be draining. Understanding the unique challenges they face—such as routine disruption and sensory overload—can help create a more supportive environment. And then, when they are back, they can actually be fulfilled, but also drained in a way that's not fixed by a couple nights good sleep. So understanding that they might need a bit of time to get back in the rhythm, will be very helpful. It's maybe counter-intuitive, but that doesn't make it any less real. By fostering awareness and understanding, we can create a workplace that accommodates the diverse needs of all employees, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive, both during and after their time away.

A very busy beach on a sunny day