Dealing With End-of-Summer Anxiety

"Why this happens: More than just seasonal blues Seasonal changes impact us more than we realize. Studies show that holiday periods, including summer transitions, can bring increases of up to 25 percent in anxiety and depression rates 1. Even beyond clinical depression, according to one researcher, 28 percent of people experience "September Sadness," a noticeable low mood or anxiety tied to shorter days and fading summer plans."

"The transition from summer to fall is bittersweet, and its effects are often underestimated. Research highlights that " savoring is an active cognitive process that boosts mood and builds resilience," 2 which can make this period emotionally complex. The pressure isn't always loud. Sometimes, it might feel like a quiet, nagging hum seeping from uncompleted plans, looming expectations, or simply the loss of light."

End-of-summer transition commonly produces anxiety, nostalgia, and mixed emotions as daylight shortens and routines shift. Seasonal changes can increase anxiety and depression rates by up to 25 percent during holiday periods, and about 28 percent of people report "September Sadness" tied to shorter days and fading plans. Savoring positive moments is an active cognitive process that boosts mood and builds resilience. Pressure from uncompleted plans, looming expectations, comparison, and perfectionism intensifies seasonal anxiety. Small, intentional adjustments and slowing down help ease the shift without undermining late-summer joy. Mixed feelings of sadness and excitement can coexist during the change.

Read at Psychology Today