In a recent social media post, Kelly Hubbell, a 37-year-old mother of three, shared her decision to leave a family vacation early due to overwhelming stress. The family trip took place at a lakefront home in upstate New York, requiring significant travel from Oregon that included a five-hour flight, a two-hour drive, and a ferry ride. Hubbell and her family of five found themselves cramped in a single bedroom with her husband’s extended family for what was intended to be a 17-day stay. The environment was chaotic, with children running around and the pressures of family dynamics adding to the tension.
By the twelfth day of the vacation, Hubbell felt she had reached her breaking point. Contributing to her already heightened stress was her feeling unwell. She expressed her overwhelm candidly, emphasizing the difficulty of managing a large family in such close quarters, especially when expectations clash with reality. In her reflection, she admitted that despite trying to make the situation work each year, it had become too much for her.
Ultimately, she made the tough decision to pack up her family and leave five days early from the vacation, acting without regret. Hubbell acknowledged her husband’s disappointment and the possibility of gossip within the family, but reaffirmed her commitment to putting her wellbeing first. She highlighted the importance of self-care, urging other mothers to prioritize their mental health despite societal pressure and feelings of guilt that often accompany such decisions.
Hubbell’s experience resonates with many who find family gatherings to be more stressful than enjoyable. A recent survey of 2,000 U.S. travelers revealed that 34% do not consider visiting family a genuine vacation. Moreover, a staggering 71% reported feeling the need for a “vacation from their family vacation” to genuinely relax. This sentiment underscores the common struggles faced by families during reunions, where the blend of responsibilities, expectations, and exhaustion can quickly lead to burnout.
While those surveyed acknowledged they enjoy spending quality time with family, many report feeling drained by the end of their trips. This dichotomy illustrates a broader cultural narrative surrounding familial obligations, where the myth of a joyous family escape often clashes with the reality of overwhelming responsibilities and emotional strain. Hubbell’s decision serves as a reminder to acknowledge one’s limits, encouraging others to protect their peace amid family chaos.
In sharing her story, Hubbell inspires a conversation about mental health and the pressures many women face in balancing family obligations with personal wellbeing. This narrative offers validation to those who may feel trapped by expectations, reminding them that prioritizing self-care is not only acceptable but necessary. Ultimately, while family connections are invaluable, finding peace during chaotic family vacations should take precedence, fostering healthier dynamics and allowing for deeper connections when the time is right.
