For many Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs) — and also for the estimated 10 million people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — the numerous seasonal and lifestyle changes that accompany fall can cause something called "autumn anxiety."
Though the term “autumn anxiety” is relatively new, (it was coined by a Welsh therapist named Gene Scully back in 2005), seasonal anxiety is definitely not a new thing. Even for people who don’t deal with anxiety disorders, SAD, or the many challenges of being an HSP, the first few weeks of fall can trigger feelings of nervousness. The thing is, no matter who you are, autumn is typically full of changes. With fall comes new class schedules, new jobs, new social commitments, shorter days, cooler weather, a tendency to nest, and less free time in general — so it’s really not surprising that so many people get anxious in the fall.
Though the term “autumn anxiety” is relatively new, (it was coined by a Welsh therapist named Gene Scully back in 2005), seasonal anxiety is definitely not a new thing. Even for people who don’t deal with anxiety disorders, SAD, or the many challenges of being an HSP, the first few weeks of fall can trigger feelings of nervousness. The thing is, no matter who you are, autumn is typically full of changes. With fall comes new class schedules, new jobs, new social commitments, shorter days, cooler weather, a tendency to nest, and less free time in general — so it’s really not surprising that so many people get anxious in the fall.