A few weeks ago, while waiting on the couch for my family to finish getting ready for an outing, an overwhelming sense of dread washed over me. Even as we drove to the park to celebrate my nine-year-old’s birthday, my heart raced with an inexplicable anxiety. Everything seemed fine. It was a lovely fall day, and we were celebrating my child’s special day. So why was I feeling this way?
The next morning, I stumbled upon an article discussing “autumn anxiety,” a term introduced by psychologist Mia Collins in 2005. It was a revelation. According to Collins, many people experience anxiety and unease as summer transitions into fall.
In an interview with a local publication, Collins noted that she often sees this phenomenon in her clients, admitting she experiences it too. Her description struck a chord with me: “Many describe a sense of anxiety without a clear reason, almost a feeling of anticipation without knowing what they’re anticipating.”
I was taken aback. This perfectly encapsulated my emotions—an unsettling sense of doom for no apparent reason.
Collins identified several factors contributing to this seasonal anxiety. She explained that those who are more sensitive to their surroundings are particularly affected. As someone who often feels the effects of weather changes, this resonates with me. Yet, she observed that even those who are typically more grounded can experience this unease, often attributing it to the natural shifts that come with autumn.
Autumn anxiety is characterized by a feeling of apprehension tied to the changing seasons—the shift from warm, sunny days to cooler, shorter ones. Healthline notes that this anxiety is also related to major life transitions, such as the start of a new school year and the approach of the holiday season, compounded by reduced outdoor activity and exercise.
For many parents, the start of the school year can amplify anxiety, especially amidst ongoing pandemic concerns. I felt it too. The combination of seasonal change and the impending holiday rush was overwhelming. My son’s birthday is a joyful occasion, but with multiple family birthdays from September to January, the pressure of celebrations loomed large.
As an introvert, the holiday season can be particularly daunting. The darkness of early mornings and earlier sunsets has only added to my sense of dread. Could it be seasonal affective disorder rearing its head?
While autumn anxiety shares similarities with seasonal affective disorder, Collins points out that it is distinct, typically lasting only a few weeks as we transition from summer to fall. However, for some, autumn anxiety can lead directly into seasonal affective disorder.
To combat these feelings, Healthline suggests increasing exposure to sunlight and considering light therapy if necessary. Adjusting vitamin D intake may also help (consult with your doctor for personalized advice). Staying active, even in small ways, can significantly improve mood.
If autumn anxiety becomes overwhelming, it’s essential to seek help from a doctor or therapist. No one should have to endure anxiety or depression alone—resources are available.
For most, this autumn anxiety is temporary, fading as we fully embrace the season. Understanding the source of my feelings has been a relief; knowing I’m not alone helps too.
I look forward to the season changing, reveling in the beauty of autumn, sipping on pumpkin lattes, and enjoying cozy sweaters. These comforts, though cliché, bring me joy—comfort over anxiety any day.
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Potential Search Queries:
- Understanding autumn anxiety
- Coping with seasonal changes
- Signs of seasonal affective disorder
- How to manage anxiety during fall
- Tips for enjoying the autumn season
In conclusion, autumn anxiety is a common experience as we transition from summer to fall, influenced by environmental changes and seasonal life events. Recognizing and addressing these feelings can lead to a more enjoyable autumn season.