September Blues? The Hidden Mental Health Crisis Few Talk About
As September arrives, the long days of summer give way to shorter evenings, cooler temperatures, and a sharp change in routine. While many welcome cosy nights and autumn colours, for a growing number of people, this seasonal transition can bring more than just a mood dip. It’s the beginning of autumn-onset Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — a mental health condition that affects up to 6% of the population.
Often dismissed as “just the blues,” autumn SAD has deep biological roots. The loss of daylight disrupts circadian rhythms, delays melatonin release, and can lower serotonin levels, leading to fatigue, insomnia, and a sense of heaviness. Add the pressures of back-to-school routines, mounting workloads, and financial hangovers from summer spending, and September can feel overwhelming.
Common Symptoms of Autumn SAD
- Irritability and frustration
- Oversleeping or difficulty waking up
- Increased appetite, often cravings for carbs
- Low energy despite “resting more”
- Anxiety, sadness, or a sense of dread
What Triggers September Depression
Shorter Days and Less Sunlight:
Declining daylight disrupts internal body clocks and reduces serotonin, which regulates mood.
Routine Overload:
The return to work, school, and rigid schedules after summer’s flexibility increases stress.
Financial Strain:
Higher energy bills, autumn expenses, and post-summer debt weigh heavily as the year winds down.
Social Pressures:
Social media shifts from holidays to “cosy living” trends, fuelling comparisons that can trigger feelings of inadequacy.
Coping With the September Shift
🌞 Maximise Daylight: Take walks at lunchtime or move your desk near a window. Natural light is the best preventative for SAD.
🛏️ Protect Sleep: Keep consistent bedtimes, use blackout curtains for quality rest, and avoid excess screen time before bed.
🥦 Eat for Energy: Focus on whole foods, vegetables, and protein to balance carb cravings and keep blood sugar steady.
💬 Reduce Pressures: Don’t feel obliged to take on every new project or social plan; pacing yourself prevents burnout.
🧠 Seek Support: If symptoms last more than two weeks, professional help can provide structure, coping strategies, or treatment such as light therapy.
Final Thoughts
September’s cosy reputation hides a real mental health challenge for thousands. By recognising the signs of autumn SAD early, creating light-filled routines, and seeking support when needed, it’s possible to soften the seasonal shift and enter autumn with resilience.
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