As summer draws to a close, many people experience a noticeable emotional shift. A feeling of sadness, nostalgia, or anxiety can accompany the shorter days and reduced sunlight, compounded by the end of summer’s relaxed schedule. Reduced sunlight can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, affecting sleep, mood, and energy levels. Biologically, decreased light exposure can lower serotonin, increase melatonin, and even lead to vitamin D deficiency—all of which play a role in emotional well-being. Understanding the science behind this seasonal shifts can help you manage your transition into fall.
Whether it’s savoring the remaining sunshine, making space for your favorite fall rituals, or simply acknowledging your emotions, practicing radical acceptance will help your transition emotionally and biologically.
7 Ways to Manage the End-of-Summer Blues
Continue to spend time outside
Or near windows, on most days to help your brain and body adapt. Remember September is still sunny on the redwood coast, don’t give up on basking in the sun too early.
Plan something to look forward to
Science says even thinking about a trip or hobby lights up your brain. Daydream a little. Plan a weekend getaway for the fall. New goals, hobbies, or cozy rituals can help give you something to look forward to.
Create a fall goals board
Give yourself a visual reminder of what you’d like to achieve or do this fall. Maybe you can start planning for the holidays early or plan your fall wardrobe. Make plans to take advantage of September’s sunshine and warm temperatures.
Create a memory board
Print photos, jot down favorite moments, or ask children, students, or your clients to share their highlights. A memory board helps you honor what was really great about summer—and can encourage your forward movement into fall.
Let go of any regrets
Didn’t do everything this summer? Didn’t recharge the way you hoped? Maybe screen time was off the charts. That’s okay. It doesn’t make you a bad parent. There is always a new season to do everything you want.
Ease anxiety with action
Organize everything you need to do to be ready for the change in your schedule this fall. Make lists; break things into small, doable parts. Keep it flexible though, no need to create extra stress. Allow decisions to change as circumstances and rhythms change.
This mood will pass…or will it?
If your symptoms are severe or persist consider the possibility of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and consult with a healthcare professional. SAD can be treated with light therapy, counseling, and medication.
With a little awareness, self-compassion, and proactive planning, you can soften the impact of this shift and enter fall feeling more hopeful. Whether it’s savoring the remaining sunshine, making space for your favorite fall rituals, or simply acknowledging your emotions without judgment, paying attention and practicing radical acceptance will help your transition emotionally and biologically.
SOURCES:
Blumberg, Perri Ormont. Time Magazine. Aug 2024. 7 Ways to Beat the End-of-Summer Blues, According to Psychologist. https://time.com/7015785/how-to-beat-end-of-summer-blues/
Pallotti, Melissa. Transformations Care Network. How to Beat the End-of-Summer Blues. https://www.transformationsnetwork.com/post/how-to-beat-the-end-of-summer-blues
Lister, Elena MD and Schwartzman, Michael PhD, ABPP. Psychology Today. Aug 2024. Is Your Child Feeling the End of Summer Blues? https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/facing-lifes-challenges/202408/is-your-child-feeling-the-end-of-summer-blues
