As summer fades, individuals may experience a case of the “September scaries,” emotional and psychological stress that occurs with the transition from summer to fall. This phenomenon can happen as kids return to school, work intensifies, the days get shorter and the holiday season looms.
This seasonal transition disrupts routines and can trigger a sense of loss of freedom, sunshine and overall spontaneity. The return to rigid schedules and looming responsibilities may heighten stress, especially for those juggling work, family and other personal responsibilities. Consider these tips for managing stress during the seasonal transition:
- Write down your worries – First, it is important to understand what is making you feel worried. Then, you can evaluate if it is rational or not.
- Establish routines – A routine can help you feel more in control and get you back on track for a solid season. Being intentional about scheduling time to have fun during weekends and free time can give you something to look forward to.
- Practice self-care – This transition is also a good time to reinforce healthy routines like sleep hygiene, nutrition and movement, which are especially important as the days contain less and less natural light. This practice can help you feel more physically and mentally prepared to take on challenges.
- Embrace seasonal changes – Enjoy fall activities, such as picking pumpkins and apples, hiking outdoors, baking with seasonal goods and being purposeful about viewing the autumn foliage.
Various resources are available to those struggling with mental health and managing stress. One of these is free stress management-focused wellness coaching, available to Marquette employees and their spouses; more information on how to participate can be found on the Health Coaching page.
Another resource is the Employee Assistance Program, which provides up to six free, confidential counseling sessions for a variety of issues, including emotional, stress-related, relationship, family concerns and other work-life issues. These sessions can be in-person or over the phone and are available for Marquette employees and immediate members of their household.
Additionally, for those on a Marquette medical insurance plan, instructions on how to search for behavioral health providers can be found here. For additional mental health resources, including further information about the Employee Assistance Program, visit the My Emotional Health page.
