9 Signs You're Suffering From 'End Of Summer Sadness'

You might think that seasonal affective disorder (SAD) only kicks in when the days become short and dark (ie, at the height of winter).

Well, it can. But the condition can begin in summer too, the NHS says – in fact, SAD just means your mood can change according to a seasonal pattern.

And speaking to HuffPost UK, Rick Cox, a therapist from online counselling platform BetterHelp, said that a separate issue called “end of summer sadness” can kick in around this time of year, too. 

“As summer ends, it’s natural for people to feel a sense of emotional shift,” he explained.

“The transition often brings shorter days, reduced social activity, and a return to structured routines, which can trigger feelings of anxiety or sadness... Many also reflect on unmet expectations or the loss of freedom and lightness that summer represents.”

How can I tell if I have “end of summer sadness”?

According to Cox, some signs include:

1. low mood,
2. irritability,
3. fatigue,
4. a sense of restlessness or anxiety as routines shift and daylight hours shorten,
5. feeling emotionally flat,
6. becoming socially withdrawn,
7. having trouble concentrating,
8. dwelling on unmet summer expectations,
9. feeling a pressure to fulfil them during winter, impacting overall well-being.

“Recognising these signs early allows individuals to take proactive steps to support their mental health and ease into autumn with greater resilience, embracing the change in season,” he added.

What should I do if I think I have “end of summer sadness”?

The therapist said that if you suspect end-of-summer sadness, “Start by acknowledging the emotional shift, validating that it’s normal to feel unsettled during seasonal transitions”.

Try to spend time outdoors in daylight hours, stay social, and “if low mood or anxiety persists, consider speaking with a mental health professional for
tailored support.”

Cox added, “Mental health doesn’t have to be in a ‘critical mode’ to benefit from
care – support can be just as valuable for managing seasonal transitions or everyday stress”.

Speak to your GP if your feelings are negatively affecting your day-to-day life.

Help and support:

• Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393.
• Samaritans offers a listening service which is open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK and ROI - this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill).
• CALM (the Campaign Against Living Miserably) offer a helpline open 5pm-midnight, 365 days a year, on 0800 58 58 58, and a webchat service.
• The Mix is a free support service for people under 25. Call 0808 808 4994 or email help@themix.org.uk
• Rethink Mental Illness offers practical help through its advice line which can be reached on 0808 801 0525 (Monday to Friday 10am-4pm). More info can be found on rethink.org.