The phenomenon of autumn anxiety is characterized by an increase in fear and several other negative emotions that are related to the change of seasons. A large number of patients express feelings of acute nervousness, depression, and intense excitement during the autumn months. 

As autumn approaches, the nights become longer and days get shorter. Also, the days become much colder. For many people, the autumn season is an exciting time filled with cosy weather, pullovers, and pumpkin-flavoured everything. But on the contrary, some people don’t like this change. Most of the activities that they enjoy during the summer months come to a standstill and this hits them emotionally. 

Also, autumn is a period where people can explore new possibilities, including new jobs, schedules, and new assignments. Thus, some people feel stressed and experience heart palpitations trying to cope with the expectations. And this causes autumn anxiety. 

Autumn Anxiety is Similar to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Autumn anxiety entails similar symptoms to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) such as mood swings or depression. However, there is a difference in the degree in severity and effects of the symptoms. You can feel somewhat like the Sunday night blues but it may persist for an entire month. 

The most common symptoms of this problem include:

• Depression
• Feeling anxious
• Irritability
• Persistent feeling of tiredness
• Loss of interest in activities

Thankfully, the condition of autumn anxiety can be successfully treated. Let us look at some of the best ways to get rid of these symptoms. 

Solutions for Handling Symptoms of Autumn Anxiety

Although autumn anxiety can make you want to stay indoors, it is important to go outside for a walk or to a gym for exercise. Spending time outdoors and exercising restores a happy mood and boosts energy levels.

Focus on your breathing as you walk or exercise. This is one of the best tools for combating high stress or anxiety. Taking deep, diaphragmatic breaths has a comforting and calming effect on your body.

Sleep deprivation triggers feelings of depression and anxiety as your body releases more stress hormone cortisol. This leads to emotional sensitivity and mood swings. Sleep rejuvenates the body and promotes tranquillity.

Closeting yourself in an air-conditioned room in summers or rainy seasons can trigger anxiety, especially if you are susceptible to winter-onset seasonal affective disorder. The rays of the sun infuse a lot of mental and physical energy into the body. This helps to keep autumn anxiety and negative emotions such as depression and mood swings at bay.

Do not raise expectations and push yourself for August preparations. It is best to be organized and live within a calm setup. In fact, this is the time to ease up before performance pressure hits you. Be aware of the fact that this is a transitional month, and this it is best to take it slow. You can inter-mix higher-octane physical activities with low-key ones. Make sure to take out time to relax and unwind at night. 

Reduce your intake of caffeine, and take care not to indulge in alcohol or drugs. Also, minimize electronics, avoid excess gaming, and stay away from frantic activities or distractions to beat autumn anxiety. It is best to take out time to focus on relieving stress by calming the conflicts inside your mind.

Taking Light therapy also offers effective treatment as it mimics outdoor light. It stimulates a chemical change in the brain that helps to elevate your mood. It also helps to minimize the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Autumn proves to be a traumatic period for people susceptible to different types of allergies.  Symptoms of an anxious and depressive state can be triggered by allergens. Taking antihistamines or other allergy remedies as advised by a health care physician will help to calm the nervous system.

Anxiety levels increase during change of season, especially during fall. This happens not only among adults but school-age children also exhibit this alteration in behaviour patterns. 

The aforesaid remedial tips can help to combat physical symptoms of autumn anxiety, such as depression, mood swings, and build deeper emotional reserves. Thus, you’re less likely to fall into the grip of this distressing phase.