8 Ways to Cope with Your Autumn Anxiety
Autumn has arrived in Philadelphia, transforming the city into a colorful and cool landscape. Parks like Fairmount Park and Rittenhouse Square have become picturesque with their vibrant foliage. And people are enjoying leisurely strolls and picnics in Rittenhouse Square.
As the temperatures cool down, residents of Philadelphia are putting on cozy sweaters and scarves and venturing out to embrace the city in the fall.
The streets and historic landmarks, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, seem to have a new warmth as the leaves fall and crunch underfoot. The air is filled with the tempting aromas of fall treats like warm apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, and freshly baked apple pies. Farmer's markets are bursting with seasonal produce like pumpkins, apples, and gourds.
However, despite the picturesque scenes and cool breezes, you find yourself feeling stressed, uneasy, and anxious.
You aren’t sure why but every year around this time you’ve always felt the same. It’s led you to wonder why autumn makes you feel anxious. Well, let’s explore 3 possible reasons behind your increased anxiety during the fall.
3 Common Causes of Autumn Anxiety
Transitioning from Summer to Fall
The shift from the warm and carefree days of summer to the cooler and more routine-oriented days of fall can be a source of anxiety for some people. As summer ends, the start of a new academic year, work responsibilities, and various commitments can create a significant source of stress and anxiety. The laid-back vibe of summer is suddenly replaced by a need for increased productivity, which can lead to feelings of overwhelm and pressure.
Environmental Changes and Expectations
Autumn is a season that brings about changes in our surroundings, both physically and symbolically. The colder weather and the impending arrival of winter can create a subtle sense of foreboding or anticipation. After all, it signifies the approach of the holiday season and all the preparations, financial considerations, and family dynamics that it entails. Moreover, society's romanticized perceptions of autumn can inadvertently raise expectations and put undue pressure on individuals. The pressure to partake in fall activities like apple picking, pumpkin carving, and attending autumn-themed social events can create a sense of anxiety for those who may be prone to perfectionism or social comparison.
Personal Reflection & Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Autumn's arrival often inspires introspection and self-reflection. With the year gradually coming to an end, we evaluate the goals we set and the progress we made throughout the year. This period of reflection can intensify our stress levels as we may feel overwhelmed by unmet expectations or the need to accomplish certain tasks before the year concludes. Autumn also often marks the beginning of shorter days and less sunlight, which can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for some individuals.
If you find yourself experiencing autumn anxiety, it is crucial to take the time to recognize these emotions and take proactive steps to address them.
By acknowledging and understanding the underlying causes of your autumn anxiety, you can gain clarity on how it may be impacting your overall well-being and develop effective strategies to cope with it.
Whether it is the change in weather, the anticipation of upcoming holidays, or any other triggers specific to this time of year, giving yourself permission to acknowledge and validate your feelings is an essential first step. In addition to validating your feelings, it is also helpful to engage in other tools to help you cope and manage your anxiety during this time of year.
8 Ways to Cope with Autumn Anxiety
Maintain a structured routine
Create a schedule for yourself that incorporates the changes of the autumn season. This can help bring a sense of structure and familiarity to your days.
Prioritize self-care
Make self-care activities a priority. Encourage yourself to set aside time to engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as practicing mindfulness, exercising, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
Practicing self-compassion
It is crucial to be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion during times of increased stress and anxiety. By acknowledging and implementing anxiety and stress management strategies, you can navigate the fall season with greater ease and find moments of peace amidst the autumn anxiety.
Manage expectations
Be realistic about what you can accomplish during the fall season. Let go of the pressure to participate in every autumn activity and focus on what brings you joy!
Seek support
Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who may be experiencing similar anxieties. Sharing your concerns and seeking advice can be comforting and helpful! If you feel like you need additional support, you can also reach out and talk to a mental health therapist.
Light therapy
Make an effort to spend time outdoors during daylight hours. Even a short walk or sitting by a sunny window can help improve your mood. Or you could even consider using a light therapy box to compensate for the decrease in natural sunlight. These devices can help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Prepare in advance
Plan and organize your tasks ahead of time to reduce the last-minute rush. This can help alleviate stress and provide a sense of control.
Embrace the positives of autumn
Instead of dwelling on the loss of summer, try to focus on the unique beauty and opportunities that come with the fall season, such as cozy evenings, pumpkin spice, and vibrant foliage.
If autumn tends to bring about feelings of anxiety for you, know that you are not alone. By understanding the common causes of autumn anxiety and implementing some of the suggested strategies, you can better manage and overcome these seasonal challenges. Remember that autumn anxiety is a common experience, and by being proactive in addressing it, you can empower yourself to navigate this season with greater ease and resilience.
