'Low motivation and nostalgia': Why we're all feeling the same way right now
It's a familiar feeling for many. You've had a wonderful holiday, but now it's back to reality, back to work, and back to trying to get through the washing.
And it can be hard.
Psychiatrist Dr Kieran Kennedy describes the post-holiday blues as a "slump or drop in mood after we've returned from a holiday or holiday."
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Going back to reality after a great holiday can be really tough. Getty
"There can often be associated feelings of low motivation, nostalgia for our recent trip and experiences and even a sense of longing and sadness," he tells 9Travel.
He says that's probably because the way we think about our holidays is generally through "rose-tinted glasses".
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"It's the actual and perceived increase in mood and positive emotion, as well as a possible tinge of our mind helping 'rose tint' our psychological glasses at times," Kieren, who is working with IHG Hotels and Resorts, says.
"That can then make the return to day to day life and our baseline level of mood, emotions and experience feel like it's suddenly and noticeably 'lower'."
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The post-holiday blues can be hard to deal with. Getty
How to combat the post-holiday blues
Acknowledge your feelings, Kieran says, and know that it's normal to feel a bit like this.
"Leaning into the fact that these feelings will pass, and most often do within a few days to weeks, is another great grounding tool for helping things ease," he says.
Also, prioritise taking care of your body and mind.
"Prioritise sleep, regular meals and a balanced diet, and regular exercise or movement to help steady mood, energy, and negative thoughts," he advises.
Psychiatrist Dr Kieran Kennedy is working with IHG Hotels and Resorts Supplied
"Time socially with friends and family, and even just talking about the post-holiday or post-event slump has been shown to improve things and help our mood and emotions rebalance."
Of course planning towards your next holiday can also help.
"While of course that might look like planning our next trip or where we'd like to visit or stay next, it might also look like grounding in our future goals and plans," Kieran says.
If you need more help, support is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14, and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
