Tips for Managing Workplace Stress After Summer Break
By Gina Romero, LICSW, LCSW • Updated August 2025 • Las Vegas, NV
Having anxiety about transitioning back to work? You're not alone!
If the idea of returning to your inbox feels more overwhelming than relaxing on a beach felt restorative, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a teacher prepping classrooms, a healthcare worker picking up extra shifts, or a therapist returning to a full caseload, that back-to-work stress after summer can be difficult to deal with.
In this blog, we’ll break down why this stress happens, share practical ways to cope, and discuss when it might be time to get some extra support.
Why the Stress Hits Harder After Summer
Sometimes the shift from summer's slower rhythm to the structure of the workweek can feel like whiplash. During the summer months, many people experience more daylight, more time outdoors, travel, or even just a break from routine. All of these things give your nervous system a chance to rest. When that pause ends, it's not unusual for your body and mind to resist the sudden return to deadlines, meetings, and decision fatigue.
You might notice symptoms like poor sleep, irritability, forgetfulness, or a heavy sense of dread on Sunday nights. These can be signs of transition fatigue, which is especially common among neurodivergent folks, caregivers, teachers, and helping professionals. The brain requires time and support to shift gears.
For some, this time of year can also bring grief or guilt. Maybe you’re annoyed with yourself because the time you took off didn’t feel restful, family dynamics that were stressful, or some of your goals didn’t get met. Add in the back-to-school rush, end-of-year planning, or changing budgets because of the never-ending price increases…no wonder you feel overwhelmed!
Quick Coping Tips
Try one of these strategies to ease into this transition:
Create a soft landing: Schedule a shorter first day if possible, or block your first morning off for catch-up only.
Use body-based calming strategies, such as progressive muscle relaxation. Gently tense and release different muscle groups, starting from your toes and moving up to your head, to help your body release built-up tension.
Give yourself buffer time: Avoid over-scheduling the first week (or first coupe of week) back. Say no when needed.
Visualize your day: Mentally rehearse yourself navigating your day calmly and effectively.
Rebuild your routine gradually: Shift sleep, meals, or workouts slowly rather than overnight.
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When to Seek Support
If workplace stress doesn’t ease up after the first couple of weeks or starts to affect your sleep, relationships, or sense of self-worth, then it might be time to reach out for support. Therapy can be especially helpful if your stress is tied to deeper patterns of anxiety, perfectionism, or trauma.
How Our Therapy Can Help
At Wandering Pine Wellness, our therapists specialize in helping adults and teens navigate life transitions, career burnout, caregiving, helping professions, and high-stress jobs. We blend evidence-based care with a holistic lens, including support for ADHD, trauma, and chronic stress.
We offer in-person therapy in Las Vegas and Spokane, Washington, and virtual therapy across Nevada, Washington, and Colorado.
Request an Appoint with us here:
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Therapy offered online throughout WA state, and in person in Spokane, WA.
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Therapy offered online for people anywhere in CO. In-person sessions offered in Littleton, CO.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions -
Q: Is it normal to dread going back to work after a break?
A: Yes! Transitions are hard, even when you love your job. It's often a sign that your nervous system needs time to adjust or support to rebalance.
Q: What kind of therapy helps with workplace stress?
A: Modalities like DBT, EMDR, and somatic therapy can help reduce anxiety, prevent burnout, and improve work-life balance.
Q: Can I use telehealth if I’m still traveling or not ready for in-person sessions?
A: Possibly! We’re licensed to practice in WA, CO, and NV. If you’re traveling inside of one of those states, we can meet with you. If you’re traveling aboard or in a different state, we can pause or reschedule sessions.
About the Author
Gina Romero is a licensed therapist who offers therapy to people in Nevada, Colorado, and Washington. She supports adults navigating workplace stress, burnout, and major life transitions, with a special focus on ADHD, trauma, and chronic illness. Gina is also the founder of Wandering Pine Wellness. She created WPW with a goal of supporting people in high-stress jobs. Learn more at wanderingpinewellness.com/ginaromero.
