Why Does September Feel So Heavy?

There's something about September that hits differently, isn't there? Maybe it's the way the light starts shifting, or how everyone around you seems to be talking about "getting back into routine." Whatever it is, if you've been feeling a little more overwhelmed, anxious, or just off lately, you're not alone.

As therapists, we see it every year. September brings this unique combination of hope and pressure that can feel overwhelming. Kids are heading back to school with new backpacks and big expectations. Adults are trying to get "back on track" after summer. And meanwhile, we're all supposed to pretend that this major life transition is no big deal.

Here's what we know: transitions are hard. Even good ones. Even expected ones. Your brain has to work overtime to adjust to new schedules, new demands, and new environments. The September shift isn't just about going back to school or work; it's about your entire nervous system recalibrating to a different rhythm of life.

Think about it. For the past few months, maybe you've had a more flexible schedule, spent more time outdoors, or just felt a bit more relaxed. Now suddenly, alarm clocks are going off earlier, traffic is heavier, and everyone's talking about goals and productivity. That's a lot of change happening all at once.

Your body responds to this kind of transition the same way it would respond to any major change, with stress. That stress shows up in different ways for different people. Maybe you're having trouble sleeping, or you're more irritable than usual. Maybe you're feeling anxious about things that didn't bother you in July. Or maybe you just feel this vague sense that something's off, but you can't quite put your finger on what.

The good news? This is completely normal. The challenging news? Just because it's normal doesn't mean it's easy to deal with. But recognizing that September brings its own unique emotional challenges is the first step in being gentler with yourself as you navigate this season.

This month, give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up. Notice when you're being harder on yourself than you would be on a good friend. And remember, you don't have to have everything figured out by the end of September. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do for yourself is simply acknowledge that transitions are tough, and you're doing the best you can with what you have right now.

If you're finding this September particularly challenging, you don't have to navigate it alone. Reach out to us at C.A. Counseling and Consultants to learn more about how therapy can support you through life's transitions.