Managing End of Summer Blues in Covid
If you’re a summer hater, you’re probably antsy to be done with it and move on already. If you’re a summer lover, you’re probably feeling some panic about it coming to an end. In both cases, there is likely apprehension and anxiety about what the end of the summer means for you.
With new schedules, new jobs, new schools, and new assignments rapidly approaching, it’s no wonder why some of us experience heart palpitations trying to process and prepare for it all.
Many of Us Experience August Blues
By some of us, I mean a fairly large percentage of us. Studies show that over 35% of people, mostly women, experience some version of August blues and experience anxiety related to it that's similar to Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Around this time, it's not unnatural for women to feel:
Nervous about losing the freedoms of summer and starting the responsibilities of fall
Anxious about school starting and getting their children everything they need
Pulled in different directions as end-of-the-summer plans happen in bulk in August and early September
Apprehensive about the increase in responsibility and pressure that comes with the Fall/Winter
If this sounds like you, just know, that you are not alone. Here are a few tips to help you combat this anxiety and actively prepare for the coming months:
Meditation
Have a go-to meditation you can put on to guide your breathing and slow your thoughts. Here is a link to a visual breathing exercise you can have at the ready. Studies show that visuals related to breathing exercises give us something to focus on and help lower anxiety through intentional practice.
Be mindful and prioritize tasks.
Give yourself time to complete all that needs to be done and recognize that it's okay to say "NO" to gatherings and tasks that get in the way of you addressing your needs.
Sleep!
Long sunlit days can mean you get up earlier and stay up later — a recipe for sleep deprivation. Your body releases more of the stress hormone cortisol when you’re sleep-deprived, which can contribute to emotional sensitivity.
Make lists.
Starting and ending the day with a list can help clear your mind of all your to-dos so you can approach the day with focus and organization. Ending the day with a list can help you approach to sleep with a clear and calm mind.
Start Feeling Joy Even in The Seasonal Changes!
And do so in ways that feel comfortable for you. RPS in Manhattan offers both in-person and online therapy in New York City, NY so you can receive support from the comfort of your home.
Schedule a free consultation
We’ll reach out within 48 hours to answer your questions and match you with the perfect in-person or online therapist!
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Other Services at Rapoport Psychological Services
It can be hard to manage life transitions and moods as the seasons change. However, therapy can help you find more balance. If you are looking to get more support, we provide include depression treatment, anxiety treatment, PTSD treatment and trauma therapy, testing services for ADHD, including adult ADHD and child ADHD, online therapy for moms, Coaching with Dr. Zoe, professional development, and group therapy. Lastly, we offer workshops on women’s empowerment, grief, mindfulness, and stress management. We really look forward to walking alongside you and hope you will take the next step and begin in-person or online therapy in New York!