September Blues: Why Autumn Triggers Anxiety

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The Quiet Shift That Shakes Us

As the golden days of summer slip quietly into the crisp air of autumn, many of us feel an unexpected emotional shift. It’s subtle at first—a lingering sadness, a sense of unease, a tightening in the chest as the days grow shorter. This phenomenon, often called the September Blues, is more common than we think.

But why does autumn, a season so often romanticized for its beauty, trigger anxiety?

🍂 The Psychology Behind Seasonal Transitions

Autumn marks a period of change and reflection. For many, September signals the end of freedom and spontaneity—replaced by structure, deadlines, and expectations. Whether it’s the return to school, the ramp-up at work, or the looming holiday season, this month can feel like an emotional crossroads.

Here’s what contributes to the September Blues:

Loss of Light: Shorter days mean less sunlight, which affects serotonin levels and can lead to low mood or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Back-to-School Stress: Even if you’re not a student, the cultural shift toward productivity can feel overwhelming.
Unresolved Summer Goals: The pressure to “make the most of summer” often leaves people feeling disappointed or behind.
Anticipatory Anxiety: The thought of colder months ahead can trigger worry, especially for those prone to depression or isolation.

🌧️ Emotional Weight of Letting Go

Autumn is nature’s way of shedding. Trees release their leaves, animals prepare for hibernation, and we, too, are invited to let go. But letting go isn’t always peaceful—it can stir grief, nostalgia, and fear.

You might find yourself asking:

Did I do enough this summer?
Why do I feel so tired and disconnected?
What am I supposed to be preparing for?

These questions are valid. They reflect the emotional labour of transition and the birth of September Blues..

🌿 How to Ease the September Shift

If you’re feeling the weight of the season, here are gentle ways to support your mental health:

Embrace Routine: Create a comforting daily rhythm that includes movement, rest, and reflection.
Seek Light: Spend time outdoors or use light therapy to counteract the effects of shorter days.
Talk It Out: Counselling can help you explore seasonal triggers and build emotional resilience.
Practice Gratitude: Focus on what autumn offers—slowness, introspection, and beauty.
Prepare Spiritually: Use this time to reconnect with your faith or inner values. Autumn invites us inward.

💬 Final Thoughts on September Blues: You’re Not Alone

If the September Blues feel heavy, know that you’re not broken—you’re responding to a real, seasonal shift. Anxiety during autumn is a natural emotional response, not a personal failure.

Let this season be a gentle teacher. Let it show you how to slow down, how to listen, and how to care for yourself in new ways.

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Steven Lucas MBACP PNCPS (Accred) is a professional counselling psychotherapist working in Northamptonshire. Read Full Bio.

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Disclaimer:

I am not a doctor so this guide should not be considered a replacement for seeking medical advice. It is also not a substitute for obtaining therapy as other factors, such as trauma, need to be considered.

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