Summer’s over and it’s back to the grind. This is a common refrain we hear. People adapt differently to the change of seasons depending upon their attitude, and sensitivities to shorter days with less sun. There is a spiritual belief that’s applicable to getting depressed in the fall: you are what you think.

If you say or think you’ll get depressed in the fall, then you probably will. Our unconscious mind is engaged in a self fulfilling prophecy. Because we think something is going to be true, our actions and behavior may unknowingly attribute to the outcome. Here’s an example of a self fulfilling prophecy. Your girlfriend just met this neat guy. She’s all fired up about him, so you’re surprised when she takes you aside and says, this relationship won’t last six months. In a few weeks she calls you to complain about him. He’s sorry he can’t see her every weekend because he has other obligations. Your friend starts picking at him and whining. He pulls away, and that’s it.

Our animals prepare ahead of time for the cold days of fall and the approaching winter. They shed their summer coat in order to grow a warm, and thick coat in its place. Their adjustment to fall is intrinsic. We humans adapt differently to fall and a lot depends upon our outlook. We may think positively, perhaps fall comes on gradually in order to give us time to adjust to the change. Our negative approach might sound like, all the fun’s over till next summer.

We can own, and try not to judge our feelings and attitudes whether they be negative or positive. Depression is another issue. Someone’s depression in fall can be a mental health condition called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is depression that comes on in the fall and winter months, and is relieved during spring and summer when the days are longer.

According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of SAD can be: major depression, irritability, low energy or being tired, hypersensitivity to rejection, difficulty getting along with others, feeling like you have to drag yourself around, oversleeping, craving carbohydrates, and weight gain. You don’t have to suffer from SAD. Check in with your doctor or naturopath, acupuncturist or homeopath. Your doctor might prescribe prescription drugs for depression. Light therapy may also be recommended. Light therapy has been shown to helps balance out melatonin levels that are affected by SAD.

Evidence-based and built with passion. Our primary purpose at The Kimberly Center is to assist those who are suffering in finding recovery. Restoring a healthier, happier, more productive life, graduates of our program find themselves free from substance dependence and destructive behavior. Call us today for information: 855-4-KCENTER (855-452-3683)