219. What is holiday anxiety - and why can’t we switch off? With clinical psychologist, Dr Elaine Smith

This week we’re breaking down the science behind switching off — and how to finally reclaim your holidays. From boundary-setting to return-to-work anxiety, clinical psychologist Dr. Elaine Smith shares what it really takes to disconnect (without guilt).

🔥 What We Cover

📌 Email addiction is real
Dr. Elaine explains why our brains are wired to check messages — even on holiday — and how to break that cycle with simple psychological strategies.

📌 Setting better boundaries at work
From crystal-clear out-of-office messages to handling pushy colleagues, Elaine lays out exactly how to protect your time off without burning bridges.

📌 Toxic holiday cultures
We hear from a listener who was told to check emails daily while on leave — and got angry messages when they didn’t. Elaine breaks down what’s really happening in these workplaces and how to respond.

📌 The secret to a smooth return
Why your return-to-work inbox shouldn’t ruin your last two days off — and Elaine’s practical plan for managing the emotional spike that comes with coming back.

🎧 Want more from Dr. Elaine Smith?

• Explore her work: www.drelainesmith.com

• Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-elaine-smith-creating-compassionate-workplaces/

• Try her Holiday Headspace masterclass:
  https://www.drelainesmith.com/beat-annual-leave-anxiety
  Use code truthlieswork20 for 20% off (normally £39)

🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being

– Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/
– Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

📬 Connect with Al & Leanne
– LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork
– Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott
– Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne
– Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com
– Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat