People who feel sad and gloomy during autumn often make these 8 daily mistakes

When leaves fall, some people’s moods do too. If you find yourself feeling blue as the days get shorter, you’re not alone.

Welcome to the world of “autumn sadness”.

But here’s the thing. It’s not just about feeling low. We often tend to make certain mistakes when we’re in this state, mistakes that can further drag us down.

The good news is, small changes can make a big difference. In this article, we’ll explore eight common mistakes people make during autumn that often intensify feelings of sadness.

By recognizing and shifting these daily habits, you can take control of your mood, embrace the season, and find more joy—even as the weather cools.

1) Ignoring the importance of sunlight

Here’s a simple truth – sunlight is crucial for our mood.

During autumn, the days get shorter and there’s less sunlight to bask in.

This can lead to a drop in serotonin, the hormone responsible for boosting our mood.

What makes it worse?

People often underestimate the power of sunlight and don’t make an effort to catch those precious rays.

They stay indoors, cocooned in their comfort zones, while their mood takes a nosedive.

If you’re feeling gloomy this autumn, it might be because you’re not getting enough sunlight.

So remember to step outside, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Trust me, it can make a world of difference.

2) Skipping outdoor exercise

I’ve been there, trust me. When the days get colder and shorter, the last thing you want to do is go for a run outside.

I used to skip my daily jogs during autumn, preferring the warmth of my living room.

But I quickly learned that was a mistake.

Exercise, especially in the fresh air, releases endorphins – the happy hormones.

When I started forcing myself to stick to my outdoor exercise routine during autumn, I found my mood improving.

Sure, it took some extra motivation (and a couple of extra layers of clothing) but it was worth it.

So if you’re feeling down this season, try not to skip on your outdoor exercise.

It might be tough at first, but believe me, your future self will thank you.

3) Overindulging in comfort foods

When the weather turns cold, it’s tempting to reach for those high-carb, high-sugar comfort foods – we’re talking pastas, cookies, hot chocolate.

There’s just something about autumn that makes us crave these goodies.

But did you know that while these foods might make you feel good in the short term, they can actually lead to mood swings and feelings of depression in the long run?

That’s because these foods cause a spike in your blood sugar levels followed by a crash, which can leave you feeling lethargic and moody.

So next time you’re feeling low and reach for that cookie jar, remember – what goes up must come down.

And in this case, the higher the rise, the harder the fall.

4) Neglecting social connections

Autumn brings with it a sense of isolation, doesn’t it?

As the days get shorter and colder, we tend to stay indoors, often alone.

But isolation can quickly lead to feelings of loneliness, which can further deepen your autumn gloom.

Humans are social creatures. We thrive on interaction and connection.

Even if it’s just a quick chat over a cup of coffee or a short phone call, staying connected with your loved ones can make a significant difference to your mood.

5) Failing to maintain a routine

I’ve found that when I’m feeling low, my routine is the first thing that goes out the window.

Waking up late, skipping meals, not sticking to my exercise regimen – it’s a slippery slope.

But here’s what I’ve discovered.

By maintaining a routine, I give my day structure and purpose, which in turn helps to lift my mood.

I make it a point to:

• Wake up at the same time every day
• Eat regular meals
• Stick to my exercise routine

It might not seem like much, but having that sense of normalcy can be a real mood booster.

6) Avoiding the autumn scenery

Autumn can be a visually stunning season, with its vibrant colors and crisp, clear days.

However, when you’re feeling low, it’s easy to ignore the beauty around you.

But here’s a different perspective.

Immersing yourself in the autumn scenery can actually lift your spirits.

The changing colors of the leaves, the smell of the fresh air, the sound of crunching leaves underfoot – these can all serve as reminders of nature’s constant cycle of change and renewal.

So instead of shutting yourself away from the world, try embracing the autumn scenery.

7) Overloading on caffeine

When it’s chilly outside, a hot cup of coffee can seem like the perfect pick-me-up.

However, relying too much on caffeine to boost your mood can actually have the opposite effect.

Caffeine is a stimulant, that in excess, can increase feelings of anxiety and disrupt your sleep, both of which can lead to a lower mood.

So instead of reaching for that extra cup of coffee, try opting for a herbal tea or a hot cup of cocoa.

Not only are these great alternatives to keep you warm, but they also don’t have the same mood-lowering effects as too much caffeine.

8) Not seeking professional help

The most important thing to remember is this: If your autumn sadness is severe and persistent, it’s okay to seek professional help.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is recognized as a type of depression that happens during autumn and winter, believed to be caused by lack of sunlight and shorter days.

There’s no shame in reaching out to a mental health professional if your mood is significantly affecting your daily life.

They can provide you with the tools and strategies to manage your mood effectively..

Embracing the autumn blues

Autumn, with its falling leaves and shorter days, is a poignant reminder of the passage of time.

It’s perfectly natural to have a touch of melancholy as we transition from the warmth and light of summer to the chill and darkness of winter.

But feeling sad or gloomy during autumn doesn’t have to be a given.

By identifying and adjusting the daily habits that may be contributing to your low mood, you can reclaim the season and experience it in a more positive light.

Small changes—like getting more sunlight, staying active, or prioritizing connection—can have a big impact on how you feel.

So as you watch the leaves fall, remember that it’s okay to feel a little sad. But don’t let these feelings dictate your actions.

Use this knowledge as a tool to navigate through your autumn gloom.