Quick Summary:
As summer winds down, fall offers a chance to reset your routines, goals, and mindset. Reflect on what worked, revamp your schedule, and refocus on what matters most. Prioritize mental and emotional health as the season shifts — and remember, you don’t need a diagnosis to seek support.
Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Beau Nelson DBH, LCSW, Chief Clinical Officer
When the “lazy” days of summer wind down, and retail stores are packed with back-to-school sales, there’s a feeling of renewal and reinvigoration in the air. Back-to-school season isn’t just for kids; it can be a great opportunity for you to start fresh with a mindset on new routines and goals. Harness that back-to-school energy with these five ways to start fall off right.
Reflect
Now that more than half the year is over, it’s a great time to review what’s working for you and your family. How was your summer? What did you enjoy and what do you feel held you back from spending time together? If you took vacation time from work before fall, how can you come back with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation?
Revamp
If you have kids headed back to school, it’s definitely the right time to switch up your routines. Getting up earlier, feeling like you’re more in control of the day, and getting organized will help you and your family balance work, rest, and play.
Rethink
As September brings feelings of a new school year, take the opportunity to set some “mini New Year’s resolutions” now. What goals do you want to set for yourself and your family? Maybe it’s spending less time on devices and more time together. Maybe it’s starting a list of books to read or committing to daily exercise.
Refocus
Got plans for the rest of the year? Think about what you want to accomplish before the holidays. Imagine you’re looking back on this past year — how do you want to feel about it? What do you want to remember?
Restore
Sometimes the end of the summer can feel like a letdown, as the cooler weather brings a “back to reality” vibe. After months of pressure to have as much fun as you can, you can feel a bit exhausted and disillusioned. Prioritize your mental health to avoid dwelling on disappointments. Sign up for a class to learn something new. Schedule PTO for the coming months to give yourself a break.
Transitioning from summer to fall can bring highs and lows — for you and your entire household. If you’ve noticed changes in your emotional or mental health that can’t be managed easily by lifestyle adjustments, you might want to talk to a mental health professional. MindGlow Health’s providers are caring, compassionate, and experienced in dealing with SAD and other mental health conditions.
Remember, you don’t need a diagnosis to try therapy — you just need to want to feel better.
Learn more about our convenient, secure, trusted services today and take the first step towards a happier, healthier you this summer, and for the entire year.
