Easing End-of-Summer Anxiety

As the last days of summer fade, many people find themselves feeling a little off. Maybe it’s that bittersweet tug when you notice the evenings getting cooler, or the sudden rush of “back-to-school” energy—even if you’re not in school anymore. This time of year can stir up a unique mix of emotions: nostalgia for what’s ending, stress about what’s next, or even anxiety about the change in pace and seasons.

If you’ve noticed yourself feeling restless, low, or overwhelmed as summer comes to an end, you’re not alone. “End of summer anxiety” is real, and it makes sense. Let’s break down why it happens—and how you can take care of yourself as the seasons shift.

Why Does End-of-Summer Anxiety Happen?

• Transitions are stressful. Our brains like routine, and when schedules change, it can feel destabilizing—even if it’s something as natural as the seasons shifting.

• Shorter days affect mood. Less sunlight means less vitamin D and serotonin, which can impact energy and happiness levels.

• “Back-to-busy” pressure. Whether it’s the return to school, heavier workloads, or simply the cultural push to “get back on track,” fall can come with added pressure to perform.

• Nostalgia + loss. Summer often symbolizes freedom, fun, and relaxation. Saying goodbye can feel like losing a chapter we weren’t ready to close.

Coping Strategies:

Here are some ways to ease the transition and take care of your mental health:

1. Name What You’re Feeling

Awareness is powerful. Saying to yourself, “I’m feeling anxious about this transition” helps validate your emotions and keeps them from running the show.

2. Savor the Present

Instead of focusing only on what’s ending, notice what’s beginning: cooler nights, cozy routines, fall foods, even just the rhythm of a new season. Shifting perspective can soften the sadness of goodbye.

3. Set Gentle Goals

Forget the pressure to completely “reset” your life. Start with small, kind intentions—like committing to a walk a few times a week, journaling at night, or getting consistent sleep. Tiny steps matter.

4. Create Things to Look Forward To

Plan a coffee date, a weekend trip, or a new fall tradition (pumpkin picking, anyone?). Having little joys on your calendar helps balance the sense of loss from summer ending.

5. Ground Yourself Daily

Transitions can feel chaotic, so anchor yourself with routines that steady you—deep breathing, meditation, stretching, or even five quiet minutes outside. The more grounded you feel, the less overwhelming change becomes.

6. Stay Connected

Reach out to friends or family. Chances are, they’re feeling similar end-of-summer blues. Talking about it can lighten the load and remind you you’re not alone.

A Gentle Reminder:

Change—even seasonal change—can feel uncomfortable. But it also opens space for growth, new routines, and fresh opportunities. If you’re feeling anxious right now, know that it’s temporary. Seasons cycle, moods shift, and so will you.

Give yourself permission to move slowly, savor the moments you can, and find excitement in the possibilities ahead.

Here’s to entering fall with calm, compassion, and maybe even a little joy for what’s next.