If you've been feeling a little grumpy recently, you're not alone.
Perhaps this sounds familiar: It wasn't too long you were enjoying waves, lazy days and lounging along the river. But now, you're back to work.
If you're feeling run down, cranky and a little depressed these days, you may be suffering from something like PVS, or Post Vacation Syndrome.
PVS isn't found in any reputable medical journals, but it's gaining attention among psychologists who say they really do see a spike in people in need of help around this time every year.
"You start having people complain almost immediately, right around this time of year, right after Labor Day, people are anticipating a change in the weather," said Dr. Scott Bea of the Cleveland Clinic.
A few weeks ago, you were boogie boarding with the kids. Now, your kids are back in school, which means parents are busy helping with homework and after-school activities. Temperatures are starting to dip and the sun is setting earlier.
"The lack of sunshine seems to help us produce melatonin, makes us feel sluggish, more lethargic, we start to eat a little more," Dr. Bea said.
One of the best ways to beat Post Vacation Syndrome -- get moving. In fact, a recent study finds exercise may work as well as an antidepressant for some people. And just because the big summer vacation is over, it doesn't mean you can't work in a few mini breaks.
"Have a movie night, get a board game night going, little ways that you can take breaks and maybe even schedule in days off," said Dr. Bea.
Here are some other tips to help get you out of your funk.
Change can be good even if you go from walking in the sand to pounding the pavement.
Still aren't feeling better? You might need to seek professional help if you go for more than two weeks feeling hopeless or if you stop functioning well either socially or at work. Also, be on the lookout for changes in appetite, weight and sleep patterns.
Can you relate to PVS? Do you have these feelings? What do you do to bounce back? Leave your thoughts below.
This is today's Facebook Story of the Day. To help pick the story, click here.
