The syndrome refers to a general feeling of depression before returning to work, which is caused by irregular lifestyles during the vacation.

Symptoms include fatigue, lack of appetite and concentration, irritability and a feeling of helplessness.

Da Siping, a doctor in Xinqiao Hospital, told sina.com yesterday that post-holiday syndrome is not a disease, but can be detrimental both physically and mentally, and people should be on alert for symptoms such as visual fatigue, poor digestion and fear of work.

These symptoms generally disappear in a week or two, but if they persist, people may find measures like massages and sports helpful, Da said.

Those who ate too much during the holiday should drink tea or coffee and have simple meals until their stomachs return to normal, Da said.

This year's National Day holiday was extended by one day to eight days because the Mid-Autumn Festival fell within the period.