You’ve heard of summertime sadness, but what about September sadness? As summer draws to a close this month, many people feel anxious and bummed about returning to their routines or preparing for the shorter, colder days ahead. Here’s what you should know about September sadness—and how to navigate these seasonal shifts.
What Is September Sadness?
September sadness is exactly what it sounds like: sadness that occurs during September.
“September sadness is a seasonal shift in mood that happens as summer ends and fall starts,” says David Asch, LMFT, and Clinical Program Director at AMFM Healthcare. “For some people, it can manifest as feelings of melancholy or anxiety, low energy, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or changes in sleep patterns, motivation, or concentration.”
While it’s normal to grieve the loss of summertime, September sadness shouldn’t linger for too long—or it might enter the territory of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
“Summer often offers people a greater sense of freedom, with lighter workloads, summer vacations, and longer days, so the shift back into fall can feel like a sudden change,” Asch continues. “It’s important to distinguish a temporary period of adjustment from SAD, which is a more persistent pattern of depression that may require professional support.”
What Drives September Sadness?
Many factors can lead to September sadness, each depending on the individual. For example, while some people come alive during the autumn season, others might feel trapped by their routines. And though some individuals prefer cooler weather, others thrive during the hot, humid summer months.
According to Asch, “The biggest driving forces of September sadness are the change in daylight, which can lower serotonin levels, and the change in routine that comes with the fall.”
“Back-to-school season, heavier workloads, and the end of summer vacation can create feelings of anxiety or sadness,” he adds. “As the days become shorter, temperatures begin to drop, and responsibilities increase, this period of sudden transition requires adjustment, both physically and emotionally.”
How to Combat September Sadness
If you find yourself feeling down in the dumps as the seasons change, you’re not alone. Many people dread the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, so much so that it greatly impacts their drive, discipline, and socialability.
However, to combat September sadness, it often helps to connect with loved ones or your community.
“During seasons of transition, it’s important to be honest with yourself about what you’re feeling, rather than dismissing your emotions,” says Asch. “Find ways to take care of yourself and support your mood, whether that’s carving out time to be outside during the day, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, or fostering relationships with family and friends.”
Additionally, having something to look forward to in the near future can help you embrace the change in seasons and feel more excited for what’s to come. Every season has its own magic and beauty, if you’re willing to look for it.
“Creating new positive experiences, like a weekend outing, trying out a new hobby, or making a fall recipe you enjoy, can make the transition feel more natural and less like an ending to summer,” says Asch.
And, of course, “Remember that if your feelings of sadness or anxiety persist or get worse, it may be a good time to talk with a professional about your emotions and experiences,” Asch concludes.
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