Autumn Blues catches people off-guard. You are not alone in asking yourself, "Why do I feel sad for no reason?" Learn why you may struggle.
As the vibrant hues of early autumn gradually give way to the warm and earthy tones of fall, a significant shift occurs in nature and within ourselves.
Fall is often celebrated as an active time of beauty, transition, and transformation.
While you may have eagerly anticipated cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and the scenic beauty of this season, you might still find yourself asking, "Why do I feel sad for no reason?" You are not alone.
For some, fall is a season marked by Autumn Blues — a sense of melancholy, restlessness, and overwhelm.
Understanding Autumn Blues
Autumn Blues often catch people off-guard.
Understanding the reasons behind Autumn Blues is the first step toward finding strategies to navigate the season more effectively.
In this post, you will find:
- Subconscious reasons why you might be feeling low in the fall
- Habits and workarounds for Autumn Blues pitfalls
- Additional resources for moving forward
5 Causes of Autumn Blues
Below are five subconscious reasons you may be asking yourself, "Why am I sad for no reason?" The following things can lead to Autumn Blues.
1. Less Sunlight & Shorter Days
As autumn progresses, days become shorter, and daylight hours decrease.
People often reference struggles with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during the winter. However, most begin subconsciously feeling the physical loss of light in the fall.
Why this might subconsciously make you feel sad: The decrease in natural light can cause chemical changes in your brain, increase melatonin production, and disrupt your body's internal clock. This can lead to feelings of lethargy and sadness.
Autumn Blues workarounds:
- Consider trying a wake-up light instead of a traditional alarm if you struggle with getting up in the morning
- Spend ten minutes outside before noon to keep your internal clock on pace
- Look for creative ways to infuse your life with light
2. Chilly Weather
With the arrival of autumn (in the northern hemisphere), temperatures drop, and many people find themselves spending more time indoors.
Why it might subconsciously make you sad: The chill in the air can make it less appealing to connect with friends outdoors. This can lead to a sense of isolation and reduced physical activity, both of which can contribute to low mood.
Autumn Blues Workarounds:
- Reclaim the power of Sunday Dinner with your family or friends
- Make time for movement; consider body-doubling if you're neurobusy
- Research other simple ways to make yourself happy
3. Loss of Outdoor Adventures
For those who enjoy warm weather activities like hiking, picnics, or gardening, deep autumn marks the end of the prime outdoor season in many regions.
Why it might subconsciously make you sad: Losing these unbusy activities can lead to a sense of loss and a decrease in physical and social engagement.
Autumn Blues Workarounds:
- Invest in some high-quality cold-weather gear and go outside anyway
- Be intentional about connecting with people you care about in the fall
- Look at your life list and, if feasible, plan a winter trip to look forward to
4. Fallen Leaves & Nature's Decline
As the leaves change color and eventually drop, the bare trees of autumn bring a unique blend of emotions.
Why it might subconsciously make you sad: While the fall foliage is beautiful, the sight of nature's transition to dormancy can symbolize loss and decay. This visual reminder of impermanence and change can be emotionally challenging.
Autumn Blues Workarounds:
- Practice daily gratitude and write three things you're thankful for each day
- Embrace the gentle reminder to opt-out of a default life and live with intention
5. Upcoming Holiday Stress
Autumn is the precursor to the holiday season, which can be a stressful time for many. Can you feel your shoulders tightening?
Why it might subconsciously make you sad: Holiday preparations, financial obligations, and family expectations can contribute to anxiety and depression. Plus, the pressure to mask, be festive, and be cheerful can be overwhelming for people who are neurobusy or already experiencing low moods.
Autumn Blues Workarounds:
- Start celebrating the holiday season early to give yourself more room to breathe
- Find simple ways to slow the season down, like meditating with holiday puzzles
- Embrace a new set of unbusy holiday mindsets
- Simplify the season by buying less and giving more
Additional Autumn Blues Resources
Want to do a deep dive? You may find these additional Autumn Blues resources useful.
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